Paramount+ Australia’s Two Years Later Begins Production

Production has commenced in Brisbane on the Paramount+ Australia original series Two Years Later.

The romantic dramedy from Hoodlum, supported by Screen Australia, stars Brenton Thwaites and Phoebe Tonkin and was written by Pete Bridges.

The eight-parter is set in post-pandemic world, following thirty-somethings Emily (Tonkin) and Ryan (Thwaites). Two years after their daily flirtations on a work commute were interrupted by Covid, the pair unexpectedly reconnect and embark on a eight-date journey to see if they are destined to be together. Starring alongside Thwaites and Tonkin are Roy Billing and Heather Mitchell.

Daniel Monaghan, senior VP of content and programming at Paramount Australia, said: “Two Years Later is unlike anything else on screen: intimate, honest and refreshingly grounded. Phoebe and Brenton bring extraordinary nuance and chemistry to a story that celebrates the messiness of modern dating.”

Louise Gough, Screen Australia’s director of narrative content, noted, “Two Years Later is a lively exploration of modern romance, grounded in humor and realism. Hoodlum have a strong track record of delivering emotionally rich stories and under the direction of Emma Freeman I’ve no doubt Pete Bridges’ universally appealing storytelling will capture the hearts of audiences here and around the world.”

Screen Australia supported the show via its Screen Finance Fund and Post, Digital and Visual Effect (PDV) Incentive. Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney noted: “This captivating new Australian drama series from Queensland’s own Hoodlum shines a spotlight on our exceptional homegrown talent. Set against a vibrant Brisbane backdrop, with a screenplay by local writer Pete Bridges, and post-production taking place right here in Queensland, the series is testament to what our industry can achieve. We applaud Paramount+ for its ongoing commitment to bold, locally made stories that resonate with both Australian and global audiences.”

Tracey Vieira, Hoodlum’s producer, said: ”We are thrilled to bring Pete Bridges’ compelling and beautifully written series, Two Years Later, to the screen, with the remarkable talents of Brenton Thwaites and Phoebe Tonkin leading the cast, and visionary director Emma Freeman at the helm. Partnering with Paramount+ and Banijay allows us to tell this deeply relatable, funny, and heartfelt story about connection, identity, and love in a post-pandemic world. It’s a joy and privilege to collaborate with such incredible creative talents to bring this truly special Australian story to audiences worldwide.”

Banijay Rights will handle international sales.