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Bran Nue Dae
Anne Murphy
In the summer of 1965 a young man is filled with the life of the idyllic old pearling port Broome - fishing, hanging out with his mates and his girl.
It's a pleasure to watch a colourful Australian film that doesn't skirt around serious indigenous issues. Even with its underlying messages "Bran Nue Dae" is far from sombre; humour and music are the vehicles used to stir the collective conscience of the audience. This is a funny, high-spirited and rollicking road trip with an outstanding ensemble cast. If only every day dawned so brightly...
Beautiful Lies
Anne Murphy
An anonymous love letter leads to a slew of misunderstandings.
Frivolous, frothy, and fabulous rather than slight. In short, everything hoped for from a good French rom-com is served up in "Beautiful Lies". It is delectable. The comic storyline is complicated enough to tease out laughter around situations of mistaken identities and misguided efforts of matchmaking. There's no mistaking funny for ridiculous however; this is an intelligent and warm movie that brims with affection. The delightful cast bring depth to the characters, who relate genuinely to each other and the audience can't help but care what happens in the end. Sincerely comique.
- Genre » Comedy Romance
- Release » Limited 21 Jul 2011
- Festival » French Film Festival 2011
The Loved Ones
Anne Murphy
When Brent turns down Lola's invitation to the prom, she concocts a wildly violent plan for revenge.
"The Loved Ones" take ingredients familiar to the horror genre, lonely country roads, self-conscious teenagers, power tools and a high school dance, and creatively serves them up in an inventive story. This movie is both frightening and funny, typically the comic moments are more frightening than fun. The recognisably Australian production is all the more macabre for having been achieved without shiny special effects, no gloss. It's crowned with shockingly good performances from actors we'll see more of. There's a haunting message that love hurts.
Micmacs
Anne Murphy
A man and his friends come up with an original plan to destroy two big weapons manufacturers.
The campaign against some big bad guys that's mounted by a group of comical misfits is as inventive as it is enchanting, largely due to the truly marvellous production design. "Micmacs" is a visual feast, and the resourceful inventions created from recycled junk are captivating, all of which covers for a plot that's a little thin. Part fairy-tale, part comic book, this movie is zany, whimsical and totally engaging. Ponder the underlying social comment about arms use later and enjoy the quirky on-screen antics today.
Gnomeo & Juliet
Anne Murphy
Garden gnomes Gnomeo and Juliet have as many obstacles to overcome as their quasi namesakes when they are caught up in a feud between neighbours.
"Gnomeo and Juliet" is an animated frolic up the garden path. The concept is cute, and the plot adaptation of the classic tale of star crossed lovers is kitsch. This quality children's production is hobbled by its adult storyline. Still, there's much for young audiences to enjoy, a colorful and dramatic build, fabulous soundtrack and a jolly ending that transforms the original story of woe. Beyond the title the pun is fun but limited. Wherefore art thou Romeo?
Every Jack has a Jill
Anne Murphy
Jack is encouraged to take the romantic Paris vacation he won, despite just being dumped by his girlfriend.
Despite the odd title, "Every Jack has a Jill" is a thoroughly enjoyable romantic comedy. The genre dictates the happy outcome so the ending is no surprise. Apart from the conclusion the rest of the story is delightfully unpredictable with a cast of eccentric characters. See this movie to enjoy a warm hearted story which has all the quirky and charming elements required to weave an endearing spell.
- Genre » Comedy Romance
- Release » Limited 01 Jul 2010
- Festival » French Film Festival 2010
Wake Up Sid
Amit Jain
A romantic comedy involving a lazy, rich, and unmotivated slacker called Sid and a career-oriented aspiring writer.
"Wake Up Sid" is a fresh new age romance set in the urban jungle of Mumbai. A well directed feel-good movie, it has a wonderful all-star cast with a beautifully subtle soundtrack (not the typical Bollywood dance numbers). A relaxed, cool film that accurately portrays modern Indian youth while exploring events that most of us would have lived through.
- Genre » Bollywood Comedy Drama
- Release » Limited 02 Oct 2009
- Festival » Indian Film Festival 2010
Mr Popper's Penguins
Anne Murphy
The life of a businessman begins to change after he inherits six penguins, and his professional side starts to unravel.
"Mr Poppers Penguins" is perfectly pitched to pint-sized audiences with plenty of play on poop gags. This warm comedy, served with piles of ice, is reminiscent of family movies from another era. The bad guys are sly without being too menacing and the good guys are playful, amusing without hilarity. The penguins, apart from being predictably black and white, are lovable pranksters. It's all well paced and enjoyable, if a little light. Popper's penguin predicament is peculiar and pleasant.
World's Greatest Dad
Anne Murphy
A comedy about a man who learns that the things you want most may not be the things that make you happy, and that being lonely is not necessarily the same as being alone.
"World's Greatest Dad" is uncomfortable viewing centered on an unlikable teenage misfit and his apologetic, underachieving Dad. This movie is so dark it's pitch black, not to mention creepy - a parent's nightmare. Low key but high impact viewing that will stay with you. The messages about popularity and hollow celebrity will skulk at the back of your mind even if you are the world's greatest someone.
Bridesmaids
Andrew O'Dea
Picked as her best friend's maid of honor, lovelorn and broke Annie looks to bluff her way through the expensive and bizarre rituals with an oddball group of bridesmaids.
Although "Bridesmaids" may target a female demographic, it is definitely not your typical 'chick flick'. The film is both intelligent and ridiculous, but most notably it's also dexterously funny - there's enough raw comedy that will elicit some serious laughter from the boys and girls alike. The lead actress shines in her role along with a cast of characters who are clearly having fun in their assault on convention, gentility and good taste. Always the bride...
The Dictator
Andrew O'Dea
A heroic dictator risks his life to ensure that democracy will never come to the country he oppresses.
Tastelessness and absurdity run wild in "The Dictator" as no sexuality, race, gender or religion are spared the ruthlessness of the supreme leader. It's downright offensive... you know you probably shouldn't laugh, but it's so wrong that it coerces it out of you in some perversely wicked way. Unforgettably memorable moments are bolstered by a fast pace and short running time, and although the jokes are hit and miss, thankfully it's mostly the former. If you're after something outrageous, then prepare to be hilariously oppressed.
Due Date
Stefan Bugryn
A father to be is forced to share a car across America with an aspiring actor to make it to his child's birth.
"Due Date" is a road trip comedy that warms your heart more than it makes you laugh. It starts off rather slow and unfunny, but just like the trip itself, gains momentum as it goes along. Sprinkled with bittersweet moments, its exterior is very much a masculine buddy movie, but it has a heart of gold underneath. It rewards the viewers with an emotional subtext that makes you laugh louder and appreciate the characters more. Worth the trip!
17 Again
Courtney Slevison
In 1989, Mike O'Donnell was the star of his high school basketball team. Now 20 years later, with his glory days behind him, a magical encounter gives him the chance to be 17 again.
In a familiar body-swap genre, this movie shines with charm and good-humour. The film is led by the brilliant casting of the main character, with a great supporting cast. While clearly aimed at teenage girls, "17 Again" will reach a broader audience due to its big heart and great comedic moments. The perfect film for undemanding, feel-good fun.
Tamara Drewe
Anthony Macali
A young newspaper writer returns to her hometown in the English countryside, where her childhood home is being prepped for sale.
"Tamara Drewe" returns, and like the disconcerted locals and writers on retreat, we clamour around to marvel at her new-found nose, beauty and other news. As curious onlookers, the quaint setting becomes home to the audience, the perfect setting for chaos to unfold. The delectable cast is irreplaceable, as the intertwining relationships are constantly formed then torn, building to a climax that will leave you flabbergasted. For those partial to small-town gossip.
The French Kissers
Wendy Slevison
A coming-of-age tale about an adolescent boy and his efforts to fit in amongst his peers.
This is an endearingly pragmatic and unrestrained film about the tricky, sticky life of a French fourteen year old boy. There is no airbrushing here – the pimples are real, and ready to pop - a warning to the weak of stomach! The gritty and authentic performances from the mostly young and inexperienced cast are excellent. The first-time director, previously known for writing comic strips, has created a simple and appealing alternative to the overly-glossy, largely American contributions to the teenage angst genre. Pucker up!