Embankment Films and Night Train Media have today revealed a first-look image from Sunny Dancer, the highly anticipated second feature from writer-director George Jaques, currently in production in Scotland.
Following the success of his debut Black Dog, Jaques returns with a heartfelt coming-of-age story that has already pre-sold across Europe and Latin America, with True Brit Entertainment securing UK and Irish rights ahead of its planned 2026 theatrical release.
The film follows Ivy, played by “The Last of Us” star Bella Ramsey, a teenager navigating remission from cancer and reluctantly attending a summer camp for fellow survivors. Ivy’s sardonic view of the so-called “Chemo Camp” brands it “Cringe!” and “Icky!” – but the camp slowly transforms her outlook, revealing a world of deep friendship, young love, and moments of surprising joy.
The project is produced by Ken Petrie of 27 Ten (Black Dog, Enemy Within) and George Jaques for Athenaeum Productions, in association with Night Train Media, which also finances and holds global rights. The production is supported by Screen Scotland and TPC.
The film’s ensemble cast boasts a dynamic mix of names. Alongside Ramsey, the lineup includes Daniel Quinn Toye (Voltron), Jessica Gunning (“Baby Reindeer”), James Norton (“Happy Valley,” Bob Marley: One Love), Neil Patrick Harris (Gone Girl, “A Series of Unfortunate Events”), and Ruby Stokes (“Bridgerton”).
Joining them are Earl Cave (Days of the Bagnold Summer), newcomer Jasmine Elcock, Conrad Khan (County Lines), Shalom Brune-Franklin (Dune: Prophecy), Josie Walker (Kneecap), and Louis Gaunt (“Bridgerton”).
Executive Producer Herbert L. Kloiber of Night Train Media praised Jaques’ vision, saying, “We have been captivated by George’s emotional, whip-smart, and fundamentally feel-good storytelling. The cast has assembled for a celebration of joyous optimism, and George is acutely assured as a director.”
Producer Ken Petrie echoed the enthusiasm: “The chemistry among our brilliant young cast is remarkable—their on-screen connection continues seamlessly throughout early morning cast calls, lunch breaks and long after we wrap for the evening. What you’ll see in-camera is a reflection of authentic friendship.”
As production continues in the Scottish countryside, Sunny Dancer looks set to offer a thoughtful take on recovery, adolescence, and connection — with everything pointing to it being one to watch ahead of its 2026 release.
Featured image courtesy of Colin J Smith.
