‘Game of Thrones’ Star Joe Dempsie, Jodie Whittaker in ‘Truckload’

Joe Dempsie (“Game of Thrones,” “Adult Material”) leads a wave of new additions to the cast of “Truckload,” winner of Primetime’s Empower Fund at Cannes 2024.

Joining Dempsie are Adam Ali (“Waterloo Road,” “Little America”), Cathy Tyson (“Boiling Point,” “Criminal Record”) and Lara McDonnell (“Belfast,” “Artemis Fowl”). The project, starring Jodie Whittaker (“Doctor Who,” “Broadchurch”), aims to champion female and non-binary filmmakers.

“Truckload,” a comedy-drama based on writer-actress Evie Jones’ real-life experience, follows Lizzie (played by Jones) as she returns to Manchester after a life-changing traffic accident. The film explores her recovery journey and the impact on her relationships.

Director Aella Jordan-Edge and producers Arpita Ashok and Victoria Emslie have rounded out the cast with Carol Starks (“Save Me,” “Casualty”) and Angharad Bowen (“Bandits,” “Smile School”).

Ashok said: “We are thrilled to have worked with casting director Verity Naughton to build an incredible cast around Evie’s role as protagonist Lizzie and Jodie as Lizzie’s mum Sarah. Joe Dempsie brings depth to the character of Tom, Lizzie’s brother, while Adam Ali shines as Lizzie’s best friend Amir. Cathy Tyson delivers a nuanced performance as Lizzie’s physiotherapist, and Lara McDonnell brings fresh energy as Lizzie’s cousin. This ensemble ensures that ‘Truckload’ is authentic, thoughtful but also joyous and life-affirming, reflecting Evie’s lived experience.”

Jones added: “Writing became a somewhat cathartic process, allowing me to relay my experience as a newly disabled person. The relationships with my family, friends and even myself; everything had changed. At the same time, I still have all the same ambitions and dreams that I did before. I wanted to make sure that the script shouldn’t entirely focus on the physical disability, but the inner transition and acceptance of my character’s new life.”

Jordan-Edge said: “When looking at casting this film I knew we had a delicate balance to strike. We were searching for authentic regional actors who would understand that this story is based on Evie’s real life and the nuance that would require, but we also needed actors who would generously give us permission to laugh. I’m so thrilled about the amazing cast who have all clicked into the multidimensional world that Evie has built.”

The project received a £10,000 ($12,770) grant, plus in-kind support valued at £30,000 ($38,305) from HAWK London and Picture Shop. Tysers insurance brokers have also come on board.

Emslie said: “Our inaugural fund and the winning team have shown that with the right strategic partners we can tell stories which have not been platformed before, attracting high profile and authentic voices who increase the reach and impact of the project beyond the film itself.”