Wouldn't be an Australian movie without a little cross dressing, drab small town intrigue and a hunky Hemsworth (this time it's Liam). 'The Dressmaker' is charming enough and well acted (Sarah Snook steals a scene or two) but Kate Winslet's performance is as beige and dry as the outback fictional town the movie takes place in. Winslet's gift is her ability to fill even the most pedantic of characters with an oozing creamy ribald sensuality. Yet, there is little if any chemistry between her and Hemsworth. Hugo Weaving and Judy Davis are left to do the heavy lifting which they do admirably. A box office success when first released in Australia which begs the question: What do I know? Well, I know there is something missing. Maybe Hugh Grant? (I'd say "or a Hugh Grant type" but there isn't such a thing. We miss ya', Hugh.) The drama seems confined and forced almost as if the story would have been better suited as a metatheatre play. The result is just an okay little movie.
Review of The Dressmaker
