The highly anticipated film “How To Make Gravy,” adapted by musician Meg Washington and directed by Nick Waterman, is ready to bring the beloved Australian Christmas anthem to life. The release of the first trailer has already created a buzz among fans of Paul Kelly’s iconic song.

At the core of the story is a letter penned by Joe, who reaches out to his brother Dan from prison just days before Christmas. The lyrics introduce a cast of characters, including Joe’s wife, Rita, and explore the various relationships that connect them.

Kelly shared his excitement about the adaptation back in 2022, stating, “Dan and Joe and Rita and Angus and Dolly and all the others have been stuck inside that song for so long; I’m glad they’re going to get a chance to live life a different way.”

In this film, viewers can look forward to seeing these characters’ stories fleshed out, alongside new faces joining the narrative. Daniel Henshall, known for his role in “Snowtown,” will take on the character of Joe, while “Pirates of the Caribbean” actor Brenton Thwaites steps into the role of Dan. The legendary Hugo Weaving will portray Noel, a fellow inmate who helps Joe navigate challenges, especially from the antagonist prisoner Red, played by Kieran Darcy-Smith. French actress Agathe Rousselle, acclaimed for her performance in “Titane,” will play Rita.

The film boasts a talented ensemble cast: Kate Mulvany portrays Joe’s sister Stella, with Damon Herriman as her husband Roger. Jonah Wren Phillips from “Sweet Tooth” will embody Joe’s son Angus, while Rose Statham and Izzy Westlake take on the roles of his twin daughters, Frank and Dolly. Additionally, Eloise Rothfield from “Boy Swallows Universe” portrays Dan’s daughter Mary, and Eugene Gilfedder and Kym Gyngell depict Gary and Murray, two brothers making their way down from Queensland.

Washington has also crafted original music for the film, promising special appearances from artists like rapper Adam Briggs, Dallas Woods, Zaachariaha Fielding of Electric Fields, performer Brendan Maclean, and Patience Hodgson of The Grates.

Interestingly, although the song resonates with the holiday season, “How to Make Gravy” won’t premiere on December 21—often dubbed Gravy Day. Instead, it will be available for streaming on Binge starting January 1, with details on international distribution yet to be announced.