"I wasn't totally surprised by underperformance of The Loved Ones": Sean Byrne

Director Sean Byrne said he wasn’t “totally surprised” when his debut feature underperformed at the Australian box office last year.

“I’d hoped for stronger theatrical returns but it’s hard to be heard above big studio movies, especially in multiplexes crowded with product. It’s a blink and you’ll miss it scenario, so I wasn’t totally surprised. They say you judge the success of a movie after 10 years,” said Byrne.

“Movies like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Evil Dead and Donnie Darko built up a loyal following over time and are now considered great successes. I believe the film delivers. People are finding it more and more. And hopefully they’ll continue to find it. So if you like it then please spread the word!” he added.

Byrne participated in an online Q&A promoting the release of The Loved Ones on DVD and Blu-ray. He answered questions posted by the film’s Facebook fans, discussing his influences and further expanding the characters’ origins, motivations and stories.