This gripping and emotionally charged drama tells the story of Johnny “Spit” Spitieri (David Wenham), a charismatic but troubled lawyer who takes on a high-stakes case that forces him to confront his own demons. Set against the backdrop of Sydney’s legal and criminal underworld, Spit explores themes of justice, redemption, and the cost of ambition. With its sharp writing, intense performances, and unflinching look at the human condition, the film is a powerful addition to Australian cinema.
The ensemble cast, led by David Wenham, brings depth and authenticity to their roles, creating a story that’s as compelling as it is thought-provoking. From courtroom drama to personal reckonings, Spit is a film that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Let’s meet the talented actors driving this powerful story.
Spit’s Cast Unveiled: Meet the Actors
1- David Wenham as Johnny ‘Spit’ Spitieri
David Wenham, one of Australia’s most acclaimed actors, delivers a tour-de-force performance as Johnny “Spit” Spitieri, a brilliant but flawed lawyer with a knack for winning impossible cases. Known for his roles in The Lord of the Rings, 300, and Top of the Lake, Wenham brings his signature intensity and vulnerability to the role, making Spit a complex and unforgettable protagonist.
Spit’s journey is one of redemption and self-discovery, and Wenham’s ability to convey the character’s inner turmoil and razor-sharp wit is a highlight of the film. His chemistry with Pallavi Sharda’s Aria and David Field’s Arne adds depth to the story, showcasing the complexities of loyalty and ambition. With this role, Wenham cements his status as one of Australia’s finest actors.
2- Pallavi Sharda as Aria Sahni
Pallavi Sharda, known for Lion and Besharam, plays Aria Sahni, a determined and idealistic junior lawyer working alongside Spit. Sharda’s ability to balance strength and vulnerability makes Aria a relatable and inspiring character.
Aria’s journey of navigating the cutthroat legal world while staying true to her principles is a highlight of the film, and Sharda’s chemistry with David Wenham adds emotional depth to their mentor-mentee relationship. Her performance underscores the film’s exploration of justice and integrity, making Aria a standout in the ensemble.
3- David Field as Arne Deviers
David Field, a veteran of Australian cinema known for Chopper and The Combination, brings his trademark intensity to the role of Arne Deviers, a ruthless crime boss with a personal connection to Spit. Field’s ability to convey menace and complexity makes Arne a compelling antagonist.
Arne’s confrontations with Spit drive much of the film’s tension, and Field’s scenes with David Wenham crackle with unspoken history and simmering rage. His performance adds a layer of moral ambiguity to the story, highlighting the blurred lines between right and wrong.
4- Gary Sweet as Charles ‘Chicka’ Martin
Gary Sweet, known for Police Rescue and House Husbands, plays Charles “Chicka” Martin, a seasoned detective with a complicated relationship with Spit. Sweet’s ability to balance humor and gravitas makes Chicka a memorable character.
Chicka’s loyalty to Spit and his own moral code add depth to the story, and Sweet’s chemistry with David Wenham and Lewis Fitz-Gerald adds warmth and tension to the narrative. With his talent for playing rugged, no-nonsense characters, Gary Sweet continues to be a standout in Australian cinema.
5- Lewis Fitz-Gerald as Ian Hamblin KC
Lewis Fitz-Gerald, known for The Sum of Us and The Dismissal, plays Ian Hamblin KC, a formidable and respected barrister who becomes Spit’s courtroom rival. Fitz-Gerald’s ability to convey authority and nuance makes Ian a compelling figure.
Ian’s legal battles with Spit are a highlight of the film, and Fitz-Gerald’s scenes with David Wenham crackle with intellectual tension and mutual respect. His performance adds a layer of sophistication to the story, showcasing the high-stakes world of courtroom drama.
6- Maude Davey as Jane Holland
Maude Davey, a celebrated stage and screen actress, plays Jane Holland, a compassionate social worker who becomes an unexpected ally to Spit. Davey’s ability to convey warmth and strength makes Jane a relatable and inspiring character.
Jane’s dedication to her clients and her evolving relationship with Spit add emotional depth to the story, and Davey’s chemistry with David Wenham is a highlight. Her performance underscores the film’s exploration of empathy and justice, making Jane a standout in the ensemble.
7- David Roberts as Niall Toole
David Roberts, known for The Matrix Reloaded and The Great Gatsby, plays Niall Toole, a high-powered and morally ambiguous politician. Roberts’ ability to convey charm and menace makes Niall a fascinating character.
Niall’s involvement in Spit’s case adds a layer of political intrigue to the story, and Roberts’ scenes with David Wenham and Pallavi Sharda crackle with tension. His performance highlights the film’s exploration of power and corruption, making Niall a memorable antagonist.
8- Arlo Green as Jihad Kalif
Arlo Green, a rising talent in Australian cinema, plays Jihad Kalif, a young man caught in the crossfire of Spit’s case. Green’s ability to convey vulnerability and resilience makes Jihad a relatable and sympathetic character.
Jihad’s journey of survival and redemption is a highlight of the film, and Green’s chemistry with David Wenham and Maude Davey adds emotional depth to the story. With his talent and screen presence, Arlo Green is a rising star to watch.
9- Helen Thomson as Marion Barrington
Helen Thomson, known for Moulin Rouge! and The Eye of the Storm, plays Marion Barrington, a sharp and no-nonsense judge presiding over Spit’s case. Thomson’s ability to convey authority and humanity makes Marion a compelling figure.
Marion’s interactions with Spit and the legal team add depth to the courtroom drama, and Thomson’s scenes are filled with tension and wit. With her talent for playing strong, multifaceted women, Helen Thomson continues to shine in Australian cinema.
10- Anita Hegh as Anita Garland
Anita Hegh, known for The Code and Rake, plays Anita Garland, a tenacious and ambitious prosecutor. Hegh’s ability to balance intensity and vulnerability makes Anita a standout character.
Anita’s legal battles with Spit are a highlight of the film, and Hegh’s chemistry with David Wenham and Lewis Fitz-Gerald adds layers of tension and respect to the story. With her talent for playing complex characters, Anita Hegh continues to impress in every role.
11- Kerith Atkinson as Dr. Kelly Wanstell
Kerith Atkinson, known for Wentworth and The Secret Life of Us, plays Dr. Kelly Wanstell, a forensic psychologist with a key role in Spit’s case. Atkinson’s ability to convey intelligence and empathy makes Kelly a relatable and inspiring character.
Kelly’s insights into the human psyche add depth to the story, and Atkinson’s chemistry with David Wenham and Pallavi Sharda is a highlight. With her talent for playing strong, intelligent women, Kerith Atkinson continues to be a standout in Australian cinema.
