Sales agent Cappu Films has acquired the international rights for Her Last Laugh, the latest feature from director Joy Hopwood. The dramedy, which features a cast led by Peter Thurnwald (XO, Kitty) and Ana Thu Nguyen (Mortal Kombat II), is being introduced to global buyers at the 2026 Asian Contents & Film Market during the Busan International Film Festival.
The film follows sisters Willow and Annika Lim, who find themselves the unexpected heirs to the “Laughing Lims” casting agency. The inheritance comes with a high-stakes condition: the siblings must turn the business into a profitable enterprise within 12 months, or the agency will be forfeited to their uncle. The project marks a continuation of Hopwood’s focus on Asian-Australian representation, serving as her sixth feature film as a writer, director, and producer.
In addition to his starring role, Peter Thurnwald serves as an executive producer on the project alongside Leonie Marsh. Thurnwald, who gained international recognition for his role in the Netflix series XO, Kitty, is joined by Nguyen, who is slated to appear in the upcoming Mortal Kombat II. The production also features a supporting cast that includes veteran actor John Waters, comedian Tiana Hogben, Lyanna Kea, and Kya Stewart.
Australian Release and Domestic Strategy
While Cappu Films manages sales for all territories outside of Australia and New Zealand, domestic distribution plans are already in motion. According to IF Magazine, the Australian theatrical rollout is scheduled to begin on November 7, 2026. The release strategy includes major screenings in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, providing a platform for the indie production to reach its home audience before expanding internationally.
The film’s presence at the Busan market is intended to capitalize on the global profiles of its leads. By focusing on a sibling dynamic within the specific world of an acting agency, Her Last Laugh aims to blend niche industry insights with broader themes of family legacy and business survival.
