Some movies grab you by the heartstrings and pull you in. Some mesmerise with their epic cinematography. Some mirror real life in a profoundly moving way. Others educate and raise awareness. Take My Hand is all of these.
WRITTEN BY DONNA RISHTON-POTTER
When John Raftopoulos and Claire Jensz first met as teenagers, neither could have imagined how their paths would intertwine in the most extraordinary way. Their real-life journey—one of friendship, love, separation, and an eventual reunion in the face of adversity—forms the heart of Take My Hand, an evocative romantic drama, set in the Northern Rivers, now streaming. More than a love story, the film is a deeply personal testament to resilience and a powerful advocacy piece for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a disease that radically changed Claire’s life.
Claire’s story is one of immense courage—a mother facing a life-altering diagnosis, the devastating loss of her husband, and the brave decision to return to Australia with her three young sons, leaving behind the life they knew. John’s is one of devotion—the unwavering certainty about the girl he fell in love with at 15, a quiet melody threading through the film.
His determination to share their story and shed light on a disease that affects millions worldwide became the driving force behind Take My Hand.
As a first-time writer and director, Raftopoulos faced immense challenges translating this deeply personal narrative into a feature film. With guidance from acclaimed filmmaker Wayne Blair (The Sapphires), he brought an honest and raw depth to the story. “I just couldn't let anyone else direct it,” he admits.
Closely mirroring real-life events, with Claire’s MS diagnosis at its heart, Take My Hand stars Radha Mitchell (Pitch Black, Man on Fire, Blueback) as Laura (inspired by Claire) and Adam Demos (Sex/Life, UnREAL) as Michael (John’s fictional counterpart). Their nuanced performances bring depth and authenticity to the story.
Laura’s journey takes her from a successful career in London to Australia, where she must rebuild her life following her husband’s sudden death. Amid grief and the challenges of her diagnosis, she finds solace in Michael—a childhood sweetheart who never stopped loving her.
Adding to the film’s emotional resonance is its breathtaking cinematography, which transforms the Northern Rivers into a character of its own. Shot accross Byron Bay, Bangalow, Lennox Head, and other stunning locations, the film captures the close-knit community and magical landscapes of a region Raftopoulos and Jensz call home.
Locals will recognise familiar landmarks, including Zephyr Horses (which John and Claire co-own), Harvest restaurant in Newrybar (sadly now closed but nostalgically captured on film), Victoria’s at Ewingsdale, Federal Hall, Bangalow’s main street, Baz & Shaz Fruit & Veg in Suffolk Park, and the beach at Lennox Head—all seamlessly woven into the narrative. “The area is second to none for landscape and community,” says Raftopoulos. “It’s my home, and I wanted the film to reflect that sense of belonging.”
Bronte Pictures, the production company behind Take My Hand, also has strong ties to the region. Founded by Bangalow-based producer Blake Northfield, the company has played a key role in elevating Australian cinema with its expanding portfolio of acclaimed films. It was Northfield’s immediate belief in the story that set the film in motion, describing it as, “a film about hope, resilience, and never giving up.” He also saw the value in filming locally, adding, “Using familiar locations to honour this moving story—collaborating with locals and involving as many as possible in the film—was an incredibly positive experience. While many of the crew were local, those who travelled from interstate quickly fell in love with the region.”
Beyond its love story, Take My Hand serves as an awareness-driven film in partnership with MS Australia. The organisation’s CEO, Rohan Greenland, praised the film for its, “profound portrayal of MS and its potential to spark meaningful awareness within the community,” adding, “MS Australia is excited to partner with Claire Jensz, John Raftopoulos, and the creative team behind Take My Hand.” Through an honest and unsentimental depiction of Laura’s struggles, the film sheds light on the realities of MS, a disease that primarily affects young adults and is most prevalent in women. Audiences gain a deeper understanding of the everyday challenges faced by those living with MS, with the film’s authenticity rooted in the lived experiences of those who know the disease firsthand.
For Jensz, who also serves as a producer, the film’s ability to educate is just as important as its emotional impact. “It’s surreal to see your life on the big screen,” she shares. “But it’s humbling to know it can help raise awareness about MS and the realities of living with it.”
Raftopoulos, who co-wrote the screenplay with Dave Paterson, brings his own deeply personal perspective to the film. The portrayal of MS is a nuanced reflection of lived experience. “We feel the pain of those who live with MS and their carers and are privileged to give a new platform to the disease,” he says. “We hope this film educates and inspires those who have a passion for something or someone and refuse to let an illness define them.”
The disease, which affects over 33,000 Australians and three million people worldwide, remains without a cure.
UNDERSTANDING MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS)
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and body. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres, leading to inflammation and scarring. Symptoms vary widely and can include fatigue, vision problems, mobility challenges, cognitive impairment, and chronic pain. While MS is not directly fatal, its progression can significantly impact quality of life.
MS is most commonly diagnosed in young adults, with women three times more likely to be affected than men. The exact cause remains unknown, though a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute. Despite advances in treatment, there is currently no cure.
MS Australia is the leading advocacy and research organisation dedicated to supporting Australians affected by MS. They provide essential services, fund research for better treatments, and work toward finding a cure. Through awareness campaigns, community support, and policy initiatives, MS Australia strives to improve the lives of those living with the disease.
To learn more, support research, or seek assistance, visit msaustralia.org.au.
Comments