I watched this film with little knowledge of its content apart from a vague recollection that there was a play by the same name from many years ago. I was pleasantly surprised by the movie and thoroughly enjoyed its humour and wackiness. I am northern European heritage but even I wanted to be an Aborigine for a day (watch the movie and you will know what I am talking about). Given the Indigenous population in Darwin where I live and the proximity of us to Broome there was always going to be some forgiveness for the inherent weaknesses in the movie. Hell, even though I haven't met Jess Mauboy personally, I know some people who were/are important in her life. I also have met and enjoyed a bit of time many years ago with Uncle Tadpole, Ernie Dingo. So I suppose you could say that I am more inclined to be supportive of this movie than not. That being said, I was in a cinema 80 per cent full and there was standing applause at the end by some. My 17 year old daughter who I thought would seriously savage the movie came out saying she really enjoyed it. Clearly, Geoffrey Rush is a standout, as with anything he delivers on screen. But this is not a movie about standouts. It delivers in the true Indigenous philosophy of a collaborative effort. The sum of the collaborative efforts is far greater than the individual parts. Go see it with no preconceptions and enjoy. I reckon the reason this quirky movie is so interesting is that it defies genre, unlike another poster that didn't seem to enjoy it because it didn't seem to fit a pre-defined mould.
34 Reviews
Aboriginal musical romp - Great cast, catchy tunes, good fun
AtomicAce7 January 2010
BRAN NUE DAE (aboriginal speak for "Brand New Day") is a joyous musical romp which celebrates Australia's indigenous culture. The movie tells the story - in song, dance and dialogue - of an aboriginal boy's escape from a Catholic boarding school in Perth in the 1960s and misadventures with hippies (Missy Higgins and Tom Budge) and Uncle Tadpole (Ernie Dingo) in a "Kombi" Campervan on his journey back to his sweetheart in hometown, Broome, pursued by the relentless Father Benedictus (Geoffrey Rush).
In the 1990s, I had enjoyed the stage musical written by Broome musician/playwright, Jimmy Chi, but was intrigued as to how it might be adapted to the big screen. I was not disappointed. Director Rachel Perkins does a fine job of retaining the exuberance of the stage production while incorporating new elements that only cinema can provide. Like most road comedies, BRAN NUE DAE revolves around a series of skits, most of which are very funny. The cast are excellent, especially Ernie Dingo and Jessica Mauboy, with suitably over-the-top performances by Geoffrey Rush, Deborah Mailman and Magda Szubanski. The tunes are catchy and infectious.
BRAN NUE DAE touches lightly upon aboriginal rights issues, but mostly it is good old fashioned vaudevillian fun. Go see it!
In the 1990s, I had enjoyed the stage musical written by Broome musician/playwright, Jimmy Chi, but was intrigued as to how it might be adapted to the big screen. I was not disappointed. Director Rachel Perkins does a fine job of retaining the exuberance of the stage production while incorporating new elements that only cinema can provide. Like most road comedies, BRAN NUE DAE revolves around a series of skits, most of which are very funny. The cast are excellent, especially Ernie Dingo and Jessica Mauboy, with suitably over-the-top performances by Geoffrey Rush, Deborah Mailman and Magda Szubanski. The tunes are catchy and infectious.
BRAN NUE DAE touches lightly upon aboriginal rights issues, but mostly it is good old fashioned vaudevillian fun. Go see it!
Yes! It really is.
ptb-84 January 2010
BRAN NUE DAE is an utterly delightful new musical with an Indigenous Australian cast that is a sensational showcase of Aboriginal/Islander talent. Set in Broome in NW West Australia with spectacular natural scenery, BRAN NUE DAE revels in its silliness, sense of fun, community and absolute zinger talent. It is a musical road trip set in 1969 about a funny romantic schoolboy who falls in love and discovers hilarious family truths. It also clearly shows how photogenic our Aboriginal teens are, and with young-Elvis-like Rocky Mackenzie as Willie in a screen debut with gorgeous Jessica Mauboy as the focus, we are swept along for raucous dusty fun. It will appeal to cinema audiences as PRISCILLA did in revealing the beauty of Australian deserts and with top stars Geoffrey Rush and Magda Szubanski as key white talent in showstopper roles, the film has the broadest possible appeal. The songs are memorable and the imagery truly beautiful. BRAN NUE DAE is a tad edited down and short at 88 minutes, but that only means I wanted more. It is by turns hilarious, poignant and always visually stunning whether it be the faces or the landscape. If this is that start to a new decade in Oz film making, then I want more. No more dumb desert murder films. Lets go for fun and happiness and music music music. Ernie Dingo plays it like Uncle Remus and scores the best laughs.
Its just not quite right
rstewart-636-3796018 January 2010
Bran Nue Day has its heart in the right place it just doesn't quite pull it off! Its basically a musical road movie but its just a bit too silly for my tastes. There are some good elements - it moves along nicely, there are some good performances (Jessica Mauboy for one, Ernie Dingo is OK too), reasonable songs, its bright & paints Australias Broome in an attractive light. Other parts really could have done with some work though. The Tom Budge character (he plays Missy Higgins hippie boyfriend) is a complete joke & Geoffrey Rushs character is over the top too. Some of the choreography & miming are so bad, characters pop in & out with little relevance & the finale is woeful. With all that it is a pretty reasonable excuse for a mindless popcorn movie, it thats what you are looking for, this is your film.
Disappointing but entertaining
hylinski18 February 2010
With all the hype in the Aussie media about this, I expected an Australian equivalent to Cabaret, but this is closer to a "Road to..." movie with a black Crosby and Hope. This is farce with a touch of social comment, and when seen in that light could be funny and enjoyable. Personally I could not because of the gushy reviews I'd heard. One day I hope to not rush along, lemming-like, to see a movie because of a Julie Rigg exultation! Like many musicals, Bran Nue Dae has a barely believable plot, one dimensional characters, a resolution which makes a deus ex machina look believable and moderately interesting music.
Within these parameters director Rachel Perkins does a good job, but the star turn of the piece for me was Ernie Dingo as Uncle Tadpole. He's worth the ticket price on his own.
Within these parameters director Rachel Perkins does a good job, but the star turn of the piece for me was Ernie Dingo as Uncle Tadpole. He's worth the ticket price on his own.
its good.. feel good
petersj-225 January 2010
"Bran Nue Day" was one of the most magical nights I ever had in the theatre. The young Aboriginal cast was a delight and although the young experienced cast may not have had the polish of more seasoned performers it was still a warm engaging production. I had reservations about seeing the movie; I was worried it would become too slick and too polished. Director Rachel Perkins has assembled a cast of slick professionals such as Geoffrey Rush and Ernie Dingo and both give fine over the top performances but she has also gathered some new faces such as Jessica Mauboy and Rocky McKenzie who hold their own really well against the seasoned performers. Dingo carries the film and gives a fabulous performance in what is a purposely corny contrived plot. The contrivances worked superbly with a live audience but I am not sure if a film audience will enjoy it. Wisely the director has kept the film character driven rather getting carried away with location. .The only jarring note is Missy Higgins who seems wooden and uncomfortable. I have always found her to be a mediocre singer but she is an even worse actress. Still there is plenty to enjoy in the feel good musical. I warn you it is contrived but that's its charm and there is plenty of energy in the film. Rocky McKenzie is a real scene stealer and one of the most delightful young actors I have seen
The reviews are more impressive than the movie
katzkin16 January 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I'm beginning to lose faith in the IMDb reviews I read in here.
People are being awfully generous scoring this film 10 out of 10 and calling it "the best movie I've ever seen".
To me it's a flawed work of great unfulfilled potential.
The trailer, on the other hand is excellent!
I would have enjoyed this film more if: * It could have chosen on genre and stuck to it. * I could have understood the lyrics to more of the songs (I'm sure they were very clever, but the sound mix was not the best). * There was a reason for Magda's character to be in it. * They gave a reason why everyone was arrested. * The film maker could add some punchlines to some of the potentially funny moments. * They showed more of the country than just the one, dusty red stretch of road.
Having said that, I do agree that it is still one of the better Australian films of the past few years.
I just wish the film makers would spend more time in the editing room and less time on IMDb writing reviews...
People are being awfully generous scoring this film 10 out of 10 and calling it "the best movie I've ever seen".
To me it's a flawed work of great unfulfilled potential.
The trailer, on the other hand is excellent!
I would have enjoyed this film more if: * It could have chosen on genre and stuck to it. * I could have understood the lyrics to more of the songs (I'm sure they were very clever, but the sound mix was not the best). * There was a reason for Magda's character to be in it. * They gave a reason why everyone was arrested. * The film maker could add some punchlines to some of the potentially funny moments. * They showed more of the country than just the one, dusty red stretch of road.
Having said that, I do agree that it is still one of the better Australian films of the past few years.
I just wish the film makers would spend more time in the editing room and less time on IMDb writing reviews...
It's a musical comedy
bbewnylorac19 December 2012
The people who say this film is badly acted and cheesy just do not understand it. Just like Grease, it is meant to be a musical comedy and has aspects of great parody. Even as Missy Higgins is acting the wide eyed hippie, she's poking fun at hippies and the hippie era, as well as being affectionate towards it. I think she's brilliant in this film. There are some pretty dark themes such as alcohol abuse, deaths in police custody and homelessness -- and humour is used as an effective tool. Rather than trivialise the issues, it makes us look at them in a different way. Rather than state that all Europeans or all Aborigines are bad, the film shows us that people are often a mixture of good and bad. I think it's beautifully shot and directed and the actors, who clearly had a ball making it, do a fantastic job.
super delightful with fantastic dance scene
futuretype5 May 2017
This movie was a pleasant surprise providing insights and realism of aborigines life and treatment. The musical numbers were quirky and entertaining. The two minute dance scene near the beginning, starting at 04:00 minutes to 06:00 minutes, is amazingly fantastic. I have watched it dozens of times. The camera work, the editing, the characters all combine to make a mesmerizing sequence. The characters seem like you could find them there today if you went to Broome, Western Australia, right down to the white folk sitting around in the periphery. And it looks like Jimmy Chi himself (author of the musical) is right up on stage playing with the band the Kuckles.
It Is What It Is
Pawn1230 January 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Bran Nue Dae is an honest attempt at providing us with a light-hearted Indigenous-fueled musical comedy, that instead of dwelling on the wrongs and injustice that have been bestowed upon their culture and past by white society, decides to celebrate everything Aboriginal. This is an enormous shift in tone from previous films such as Samson & Delilah, in which the protagonist sniffs copious amounts of petrol, and at one point is living homeless under a bridge in Alice Springs (though it does feature one of the most beautifully minimalist relationships I have seen – Samson only speaks a single word during the film). It is also a far cry from Rabbit Proof Fence, which deals with the whole "Stolen Generation" debacle (probably not an appropriate word choice). So it is nice to see a more joyful film coming out of the Aboriginal community. But, even despite its best intentions, Bran Nue Dae is in no way a great film, and in fact actually teeters on the edge of being a bad film.
Bran Nue Dae tells the story of a boy named Willie (Rocky McKenzie – cinematic virgin), who lives in Broome, and is destined for priesthood. Despite his supposed destiny, Willie feels a lustful urge towards a young girl named Rosie (Jessica Mauboy). Before he is given a chance to fully explore his feelings, Willie is sent back to a Christian boarding school, ruled over by Father Benedictus (Geoffrey Rush – Shine, Pirates Of The Caribbean). After an incident involving a few Cherry Ripes and a paddle, Willie runs away, attempting to make his way back up to Broome with the help of a drunkard named Uncle Tadpole (Ernie Dingo), a hippie named Annie (Missy Higgins), and German man named Slippery (Tom Budge – Round The Twist) who is looking for his father. So they travel, they endure conflict, and it all gets resolved, etc etc.
BND is essentially a feel-good movie, but being so leads it to take route down a never-ending display of cliché avenues. Most of the characters are built entirely on stereotypes – the hippie, the bad-boy, etc. And so little character development takes place that the characters are merely shadows with names. The acting, however, is decent. McKenzie gives an overall solid performance, and though his speech does often falter, he is steady enough to be warranted watchable. Mauboy just mostly stands there and looks pretty with hardly anything to do – can she act? After this, I sure as hell don't know. Then the Rushinator comes in to spice things up, and you can almost see the rest of the cast looking over at him and taking notes. Not much can be said about Missy's performance other then that she tries her best, and though I didn't find her particularly appealing as an actor, I was thankful that she wasn't particularly painful either. And then there was Mr Dingo – the film's savior. He has a comedic air and sense of timing that is not prevalent for most of the other actors in the cast. He is charming whether he be getting drunk, singing along to Rolf Harris, or just smacking a snake against a tree.
Magda Szubanski shows up for a cameo, which can only be said to be rather pointless, other then giving Dingo something more to work with, or if you like her jiggling her breasts around. Actually, that was the problem with a lot of the film – most of it just seemed far too pointless.
It's a musical, so I guess something has to be said about the music. The music was okay I guess, despite the fact that every single song seemed to be launched into rather awkwardly. Most added very little to the plot, but their was a particularly appealing song about wanting to be nothing but an Aborigine. Other then that I wasn't particularly impressed with the music the film had to offer. The vocals were fine, Ernie Dingo once again being an obvious standout, but that is really just a mater of personal preference.
I guess, cutting it to the core, what I didn't like about the film was just how corny it was. Everything was smothered in cheese, resulting in it playing out much like a Bollywood film. I do have to applaud it for that though. It never attempts to be anything more then a big hunk of happiness, and occasionally the happiness can be really quite infectious. It's incredibly cheesy, but often the lyrics of the songs are actually incredibly smart. It' s a mixed bag really, because despite being a bad film, you can't really exit the theater feeling anything but happy. So it succeeds in its goals, though it aims lower then it should have. The ending though? Brilliant. Terrible, but brilliant. It is just one big "stuff you" to rationality, and believability. They want you to feel good, so why not just tie everything together in the most ridiculous way possible? Bran Nue Dae is based on the stage production of the same name, and is Rachel Perkins 3rd movie. I will neither recommend it, nor suggest you don't watch it.
Bran Nue Dae tells the story of a boy named Willie (Rocky McKenzie – cinematic virgin), who lives in Broome, and is destined for priesthood. Despite his supposed destiny, Willie feels a lustful urge towards a young girl named Rosie (Jessica Mauboy). Before he is given a chance to fully explore his feelings, Willie is sent back to a Christian boarding school, ruled over by Father Benedictus (Geoffrey Rush – Shine, Pirates Of The Caribbean). After an incident involving a few Cherry Ripes and a paddle, Willie runs away, attempting to make his way back up to Broome with the help of a drunkard named Uncle Tadpole (Ernie Dingo), a hippie named Annie (Missy Higgins), and German man named Slippery (Tom Budge – Round The Twist) who is looking for his father. So they travel, they endure conflict, and it all gets resolved, etc etc.
BND is essentially a feel-good movie, but being so leads it to take route down a never-ending display of cliché avenues. Most of the characters are built entirely on stereotypes – the hippie, the bad-boy, etc. And so little character development takes place that the characters are merely shadows with names. The acting, however, is decent. McKenzie gives an overall solid performance, and though his speech does often falter, he is steady enough to be warranted watchable. Mauboy just mostly stands there and looks pretty with hardly anything to do – can she act? After this, I sure as hell don't know. Then the Rushinator comes in to spice things up, and you can almost see the rest of the cast looking over at him and taking notes. Not much can be said about Missy's performance other then that she tries her best, and though I didn't find her particularly appealing as an actor, I was thankful that she wasn't particularly painful either. And then there was Mr Dingo – the film's savior. He has a comedic air and sense of timing that is not prevalent for most of the other actors in the cast. He is charming whether he be getting drunk, singing along to Rolf Harris, or just smacking a snake against a tree.
Magda Szubanski shows up for a cameo, which can only be said to be rather pointless, other then giving Dingo something more to work with, or if you like her jiggling her breasts around. Actually, that was the problem with a lot of the film – most of it just seemed far too pointless.
It's a musical, so I guess something has to be said about the music. The music was okay I guess, despite the fact that every single song seemed to be launched into rather awkwardly. Most added very little to the plot, but their was a particularly appealing song about wanting to be nothing but an Aborigine. Other then that I wasn't particularly impressed with the music the film had to offer. The vocals were fine, Ernie Dingo once again being an obvious standout, but that is really just a mater of personal preference.
I guess, cutting it to the core, what I didn't like about the film was just how corny it was. Everything was smothered in cheese, resulting in it playing out much like a Bollywood film. I do have to applaud it for that though. It never attempts to be anything more then a big hunk of happiness, and occasionally the happiness can be really quite infectious. It's incredibly cheesy, but often the lyrics of the songs are actually incredibly smart. It' s a mixed bag really, because despite being a bad film, you can't really exit the theater feeling anything but happy. So it succeeds in its goals, though it aims lower then it should have. The ending though? Brilliant. Terrible, but brilliant. It is just one big "stuff you" to rationality, and believability. They want you to feel good, so why not just tie everything together in the most ridiculous way possible? Bran Nue Dae is based on the stage production of the same name, and is Rachel Perkins 3rd movie. I will neither recommend it, nor suggest you don't watch it.
review screening
nonirose24 August 2009
I was lucky enough to see a review screening of this movie. I have to say it is one of the best movies i've ever seen. What i would like to know is, when will it be shown at the cinemas for all to see? I recommend it to everyone. It showed so much more of Australian then the movie 'Australia' and it left you feeling so energised in your seat. The casting is fantastic, I was a little hesitant about a few, especially as they're many first timers for movies. At the end we were left wanting to sing some of the songs, and one could describe it as an 'Australian Bollywood' in the way it is brought together with so many songs throughout. Absolutely brilliant. I haven't seen the 'musical' version, but i wish i had! Wow what a movie. The time flies by so quickly!!!! Too quickly if you ask me!! Cant wait to see it again!
High School Aboriginal Style
mmunier9 February 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I went to see this film with great expectation on the strength of my "pome" mate's intoxicated account of how funny it had been for him; but also after what I read here about it - My wife said she did not get this impression from our Sunday paper's review... I still had to see it! Well it did not work for me, to put it plainly I had a very mild time watching it. Just now I had another peek at some comments and one did highlight exactly what I resented. Clichés, corny jokes, unnecessary stuff, etc. I ticked the spoiler box in the hope I spoil it enough for you to wait for it to come on the little box. Yes I did get a laugh or two but sometimes I did start to laugh because I needed to but the laughter fizzed to nothing in my throat as it did not happen. Yes, why Subanski, to sell the movie? Beside what you see of her (no, not how much) is what has been shown on Aussie TV for months. Perhaps the Kat'n Kim fans would get more out of it than I did, meanwhile she's found a new avenue with some "biggest looser" weigh watching commercials company - it was so gross and intended to be gross! G Rush is so over the top but obviously it worked for some. I did enjoy revisiting the like of what it was during my early days in school. When I read from someone that it had more than "Australia" about Australia it made me feel like I need to go on see my eye specialist in the very near future! I, may be wrongly, feel it does not really foster the Aboriginal cause, although I can appreciate it's a light hearted shot at it. Yes I have too seen many films with aboriginal theme of which Samson and Delilah was a little to heavy for me although I would think it was a better film I perhaps feel less aches with BND. Hmm to each its own!
This is a real celebration of local talent and culture, with a cast that has as just as greater a time as the audience
Likes_Ninjas9015 October 2010
Warning: Spoilers
This musical is set during the 1960s with an Aboriginal boy named Willie (Rocky McKenzie) living modestly with his mother in Broome. Willie's mother wants him to become a priest so that he will have a better life but he is more interested in pursuing a beautiful girl named Rosie (Jessica Mauboy). The day before Willie is sent to boarding school, he asks Rosie if he can see her at a movie but he fails to reach her in time and she is left with an aggressive white thug. Willie arrives at the boarding school in the city. It is run by Father Benedictus (Geoffrey Rush), who is inviting to Willie as he sees his potential for a greater future with the Church and names him as a prefect. Yet when Willie later admits to stealing he escapes from the boarding school and flees back to Broome to find Rosie. He enlists the help of Uncle Tadpole (Ernie Dingo), a hobo who says he is Wilile's uncle and they start a road trip together. Along the way they meet a number of wacky characters, including a German hippy and his girlfriend Annie (Missy Higgins)
One of the most celebrated Australian films last year was Samson and Delilah. It was a gruelling and powerful representation of the living standards faced by Aboriginals in a desolate community in the Northern Territory. For some, the grittiness portrayed in Australian films like this has deterred them away from local films. Bran Nue Dae, directed by Rachel Perkins, is very much Samson and Delilah's antithesis, as this is a joyous and upbeat film, light on story and depth but soaring in its energy and its exuberance. The film is based on a stage play written by Jimmy Chi and regardless of setting the play or film in the 1960s, the messages are timeless. This is not just a musical but a coming of age story about a boy who must decide for himself what he is going to do with his life and embrace who he is, not what other people want him to be. A line from one of the films main songs reflects this: "There's nothing I would rather be, than to be an Aborigine". The narrative, from the love story, to the road trip, is certainly formulaic but there is no doubting that it is highly spirited and sometimes very sweet, played with humour and optimism for much of its duration. As a musical it succeeds because of a number of enjoyable toe-tapping songs, with some occasionally cheeky lyrics, and also more soulful ballads, which are surprisingly touching. This is a film that just about everyone can enjoy and there are few excuses now for anyone suggesting that Australian films are overly grim.
One of the real assets to the film is the likability of the cast and the range of talent on display. Newcomer Rocky McKenzie is competent without being brilliant. The delivery of some of his lines might be a bit wooden, but at least he looks like a schoolboy and is a sympathetic lead. It is a promising debut for him. Geoffrey Rush has so much fun with his loopy character and so too does Missy Higgins, with her long overdue debut in film. Her efforts as a singer and thoroughly welcome here. Jessica Mauboy from Australian Idol is a really beautiful inclusion and a great singer as well. The biggest surprise though is the transformation of Ernie Dingo who not only looks and sounds different but is completely believable as Uncle Tadpole. He is funny, tender and most surprisingly, he even sings. Some critics have felt that the minor characters and cameos, like the two loose women in Magda Szubanski as a sex starved shop owner and Deborah Mailman as Roxanne who Willy meets under a condom tree, are included just for their own celebrity, rather than for any significance in the narrative. To an extent they are indeed caricatures, but the way that these characters mirror each other and relate in a more literal sense by the end, is a reflection of the film's most significant message of how everyone is connected and related, regardless of nationality, religion or skin colour. This notion comes out most prominently in the film's climax which is slightly bizarre but still hilarious.
Bran Nue Dae might not be the most memorable or thought provocative Australian film this year, but it unlikely that there will be as many that are so bright, funny and uplifting. This is a real celebration of local talent and culture, with a cast that has as just as greater a time as the audience. Even if the narrative seems lightweight and formulaic, the film is still worth seeing for its messages, as well as its quirky characters and jovial musical numbers. This is a promising start to the year for Australian cinema.
One of the most celebrated Australian films last year was Samson and Delilah. It was a gruelling and powerful representation of the living standards faced by Aboriginals in a desolate community in the Northern Territory. For some, the grittiness portrayed in Australian films like this has deterred them away from local films. Bran Nue Dae, directed by Rachel Perkins, is very much Samson and Delilah's antithesis, as this is a joyous and upbeat film, light on story and depth but soaring in its energy and its exuberance. The film is based on a stage play written by Jimmy Chi and regardless of setting the play or film in the 1960s, the messages are timeless. This is not just a musical but a coming of age story about a boy who must decide for himself what he is going to do with his life and embrace who he is, not what other people want him to be. A line from one of the films main songs reflects this: "There's nothing I would rather be, than to be an Aborigine". The narrative, from the love story, to the road trip, is certainly formulaic but there is no doubting that it is highly spirited and sometimes very sweet, played with humour and optimism for much of its duration. As a musical it succeeds because of a number of enjoyable toe-tapping songs, with some occasionally cheeky lyrics, and also more soulful ballads, which are surprisingly touching. This is a film that just about everyone can enjoy and there are few excuses now for anyone suggesting that Australian films are overly grim.
One of the real assets to the film is the likability of the cast and the range of talent on display. Newcomer Rocky McKenzie is competent without being brilliant. The delivery of some of his lines might be a bit wooden, but at least he looks like a schoolboy and is a sympathetic lead. It is a promising debut for him. Geoffrey Rush has so much fun with his loopy character and so too does Missy Higgins, with her long overdue debut in film. Her efforts as a singer and thoroughly welcome here. Jessica Mauboy from Australian Idol is a really beautiful inclusion and a great singer as well. The biggest surprise though is the transformation of Ernie Dingo who not only looks and sounds different but is completely believable as Uncle Tadpole. He is funny, tender and most surprisingly, he even sings. Some critics have felt that the minor characters and cameos, like the two loose women in Magda Szubanski as a sex starved shop owner and Deborah Mailman as Roxanne who Willy meets under a condom tree, are included just for their own celebrity, rather than for any significance in the narrative. To an extent they are indeed caricatures, but the way that these characters mirror each other and relate in a more literal sense by the end, is a reflection of the film's most significant message of how everyone is connected and related, regardless of nationality, religion or skin colour. This notion comes out most prominently in the film's climax which is slightly bizarre but still hilarious.
Bran Nue Dae might not be the most memorable or thought provocative Australian film this year, but it unlikely that there will be as many that are so bright, funny and uplifting. This is a real celebration of local talent and culture, with a cast that has as just as greater a time as the audience. Even if the narrative seems lightweight and formulaic, the film is still worth seeing for its messages, as well as its quirky characters and jovial musical numbers. This is a promising start to the year for Australian cinema.
nothing flash
lightbrowngirl1 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
OK... Maybe I'm not aboriginal enough, or too 'southern', but it just didn't click with me.
Firstly, well done to Rocky McKenzie. You were the light in the otherwise bleak cinema.
I wasn't impressed by Mauboy, who just seemed to be cashing in on her background and five minutes of fame.
It was a bit Disney to me... the smart-arse side-kick for comic relief, the wise old elder with his/her own baggage, the baddie who gets his/hers in the end, the whore with the heart of gold etc etc.
It all seemed cobbled together and twee. If you want something light and boring to fill your day in with, give it a try. But I think you could do better with a long walk off a short pier.
I just expected more.
Firstly, well done to Rocky McKenzie. You were the light in the otherwise bleak cinema.
I wasn't impressed by Mauboy, who just seemed to be cashing in on her background and five minutes of fame.
It was a bit Disney to me... the smart-arse side-kick for comic relief, the wise old elder with his/her own baggage, the baddie who gets his/hers in the end, the whore with the heart of gold etc etc.
It all seemed cobbled together and twee. If you want something light and boring to fill your day in with, give it a try. But I think you could do better with a long walk off a short pier.
I just expected more.
Lots of fun
Imdbidia25 February 2011
Bran Nue Dae is an Australian musical comedy based on a stage work of the 1990s. Set in 1869, it tells the story of Willie, a teen Aborigine from Broome whom his mum wants to become a priest, who runs out of his boarding school in Perth after a rebellious act against the priest-director of the school.
This is a very light-hearted movie, with a cheeky and somewhat absurd plot, very charming and unpretentious, with a bit of road movie and coming of age story. The characters are very real and warm, the Outback landscapes are fantastic, and the music is terrific, with catchy songs that, however, have lyrics that are relevant for Australian culture and indigenous Australians.
What is wonderful about the story is that Aborigines are the main actors, but they are not marginal people, they are normal characters, proud to be Australian and Aborigines, and that nothing is taken seriously or dramatically.
The acting by all the newcomers (singer Lisa Maubay, singer Missy Higgins, singer Dan Sultan, and HS student Rocky McKenzy) is decent enough to carry the story on, while Geofrey Rush, Deborah Mailman and Magda Subanski are terrific in their humorous small roles. Tom Budge is delightful as a German young man searching for his father. Ernie Dingo is also good in his role of uncle Tadpole, as well as Ningaly Lawford-Wolf as Willy's mother, Theresa.
The scene with the Aboriginal elders is truly terrific and magical and somewhat gets the spirit of the Australian Outback.
Lots of fun and a great vibe.
This is a very light-hearted movie, with a cheeky and somewhat absurd plot, very charming and unpretentious, with a bit of road movie and coming of age story. The characters are very real and warm, the Outback landscapes are fantastic, and the music is terrific, with catchy songs that, however, have lyrics that are relevant for Australian culture and indigenous Australians.
What is wonderful about the story is that Aborigines are the main actors, but they are not marginal people, they are normal characters, proud to be Australian and Aborigines, and that nothing is taken seriously or dramatically.
The acting by all the newcomers (singer Lisa Maubay, singer Missy Higgins, singer Dan Sultan, and HS student Rocky McKenzy) is decent enough to carry the story on, while Geofrey Rush, Deborah Mailman and Magda Subanski are terrific in their humorous small roles. Tom Budge is delightful as a German young man searching for his father. Ernie Dingo is also good in his role of uncle Tadpole, as well as Ningaly Lawford-Wolf as Willy's mother, Theresa.
The scene with the Aboriginal elders is truly terrific and magical and somewhat gets the spirit of the Australian Outback.
Lots of fun and a great vibe.
Quirky at times... almost Bollywood like!
john-5757 February 2010
Warning: Spoilers
A 5pm Sunday summer afternoon session for us for Bran Nue Dae. Most of the cast with the exception of the young male lead are very well known in Australia. Jessica Mauboy of course was runner up for Australian Idol a couple of years ago and has gone onto a successful recording career. And lost a little bit of weight since making this film so looks very hot.
Great locations (Broome, Perth and the seminary down near Perth) and a positive upbeat feel about being an aborigine. For me, right or wrong, that's the most positive thing about this movie. Enjoyed Missie Higgins, Deborah Mailman also very well known for TV shows like "A Secret Life" and stage shows is engaging as the sexually free spirit from the Kimberleys.
Possibly the only negative was that the leading younger male part is somewhat reserved by nature and that holds the film's energy back a little. Ernie Dingo is great as Uncle Tadpole and his vocals as the closing credits roll are a standout. Ernie a couple of years ago was on another Aussie TV show "It takes two" where celebrities and TV stars team up with professional singers in a 16 week or so competition.
Geoffrey Rush I wasn't so taken with. Missy Higgins I liked your smile, the character and the singing.
Chuck in plenty of great Aussie scenery, blue water, good locations, a an old 1950s Mercedes, a Kombi van, a HD Holden ute and some toe-tapping musical numbers and it's a enjoyable enough 90 mins.
Great locations (Broome, Perth and the seminary down near Perth) and a positive upbeat feel about being an aborigine. For me, right or wrong, that's the most positive thing about this movie. Enjoyed Missie Higgins, Deborah Mailman also very well known for TV shows like "A Secret Life" and stage shows is engaging as the sexually free spirit from the Kimberleys.
Possibly the only negative was that the leading younger male part is somewhat reserved by nature and that holds the film's energy back a little. Ernie Dingo is great as Uncle Tadpole and his vocals as the closing credits roll are a standout. Ernie a couple of years ago was on another Aussie TV show "It takes two" where celebrities and TV stars team up with professional singers in a 16 week or so competition.
Geoffrey Rush I wasn't so taken with. Missy Higgins I liked your smile, the character and the singing.
Chuck in plenty of great Aussie scenery, blue water, good locations, a an old 1950s Mercedes, a Kombi van, a HD Holden ute and some toe-tapping musical numbers and it's a enjoyable enough 90 mins.
A well made Aussie film
Hollywoodrulez21 May 2010
Bran nue dae is one of the best Aussie made feature films I've seen. The songs are natural and help to move the story along at a good pace. The camera work also works well to help tell the story of where our main character is heading along his journey back home to broome. The landscapes in the film are great and it has a lot of vibrant warm coulours. Even in the chapel scene when the priest is punishing the boys the director and costume department choose bright yellow shirts to give the scene a bit more of a warm comedic feel to it. The story is well written and well directed. The only thing I have to take marks off for is the clasification of the film. I think it should have been M rated due to a certain song sang in the bar scene. Other then that it is a well made Aussie film.
An awful waste of potential
Silver_n18 February 2010
I rarely feel the need to walk out of a cinema mid film, or embarrassed that someone might recognise me viewing this film. It wuold seem Bran Nue Dae breaks all sorts of barriers.
I had high hopes that this would be a cleverly shot quirky comedy. What I got was a poorly shot, poorly scripted and poorly acted adaptation of a musical which should never have been made. Honestly some of the worst acting I've seen come out of this country in a long time (I'm looking your way Missy Higgins). There were some moments which I really enjoyed - Ernie Dingos performance was fantastic as was Dan Sultans. Both of these actors really added some depth to a very shallow film.
You'll feel awkward watching some characters, and even more awkward when they burst into song with poorly lip-synced numbers that seem to come out of nowhere. This is a fine example of how not to adapt a musical to the screen there's no lead up, no emotional evocation, just BAMN and you're assaulted with singing that's both irrelevant and uninspiring.
This film screams wasted potential, it could have been so much better. It really is the little details that spoiled this film. I regret sitting through the whole film. I should have walked out at the 30 minute mark but I stayed, hoping for some level of improvement.
I had high hopes that this would be a cleverly shot quirky comedy. What I got was a poorly shot, poorly scripted and poorly acted adaptation of a musical which should never have been made. Honestly some of the worst acting I've seen come out of this country in a long time (I'm looking your way Missy Higgins). There were some moments which I really enjoyed - Ernie Dingos performance was fantastic as was Dan Sultans. Both of these actors really added some depth to a very shallow film.
You'll feel awkward watching some characters, and even more awkward when they burst into song with poorly lip-synced numbers that seem to come out of nowhere. This is a fine example of how not to adapt a musical to the screen there's no lead up, no emotional evocation, just BAMN and you're assaulted with singing that's both irrelevant and uninspiring.
This film screams wasted potential, it could have been so much better. It really is the little details that spoiled this film. I regret sitting through the whole film. I should have walked out at the 30 minute mark but I stayed, hoping for some level of improvement.
Aussies can still have fun.
Troy_Campbell8 January 2010
Where the heck did Rocky McKenzie come from? Someone must have forgotten to tell him that unknown indigenous boys with no previous film experience don't upstage the likes of Geoffrey Rush, Magda Szubanski and Ernie Dingo in their debut, because that is exactly what he has done. From the moment McKenzie appears on screen he lights it up. The aforementioned Aussie heavyweights all provide superb support though, as does ex-Australian Idol Jessica Mauboy in a role that should see her offered some more in the future. Fellow singer Missy Higgins, Tom Budge and well-respected aboriginal actress Deborah Mailman don't fare as well mind you.
Rachel Perkins has said that when she saw the stage musical of the same name she knew she would have to bring it to the big screen one day. Her obvious adoration of the source material is a blessing, the light-hearted and enthusiastic atmosphere seeps onto the audience and makes her paean a sure-fire Summer smash. Perkins has delivered what so many Aussies - indigenous or otherwise - have wanted for so long, a movie where all Australian races are poked fun at. It is the ideal anecdote to the current trend of Oz productions dealing with issues both serious and heavy.
The musical numbers are of varying standards. The finest of them – a booming Ernie Dingo-led traditional piece and an opening number in the Roebuck Bay Hotel with Mauboy and co which kicks the film off with a blast – are not only enjoyable but set the tone at their respective parts of the flick. Others don't progress the story quite as well – Higgins idyllic hymn to the 'dusty road' or her alluring melody to boyfriend Slippery – and have a distinct 'video clip' feel to them, however they're still excellent songs.
Credit goes to Perkins for proving that Aussies can still have fun on celluloid.
4 out of 5 (1 - Rubbish, 2 - Ordinary, 3 - Good, 4 - Excellent, 5 - Classic)
Rachel Perkins has said that when she saw the stage musical of the same name she knew she would have to bring it to the big screen one day. Her obvious adoration of the source material is a blessing, the light-hearted and enthusiastic atmosphere seeps onto the audience and makes her paean a sure-fire Summer smash. Perkins has delivered what so many Aussies - indigenous or otherwise - have wanted for so long, a movie where all Australian races are poked fun at. It is the ideal anecdote to the current trend of Oz productions dealing with issues both serious and heavy.
The musical numbers are of varying standards. The finest of them – a booming Ernie Dingo-led traditional piece and an opening number in the Roebuck Bay Hotel with Mauboy and co which kicks the film off with a blast – are not only enjoyable but set the tone at their respective parts of the flick. Others don't progress the story quite as well – Higgins idyllic hymn to the 'dusty road' or her alluring melody to boyfriend Slippery – and have a distinct 'video clip' feel to them, however they're still excellent songs.
Credit goes to Perkins for proving that Aussies can still have fun on celluloid.
4 out of 5 (1 - Rubbish, 2 - Ordinary, 3 - Good, 4 - Excellent, 5 - Classic)
The Revival Continues
blackfirepro28 September 2010
Warning: Spoilers
The past decade has seen the revival of the American musical. We've had Chicago, The Phantom of the Opera, and of course Sweeney Todd. Now here we are in a new decade, and musicals are still going strong. I loved this movie. Bran Nue Dae is an absolutely pointless film with an over-the-top plot and useless characters. But it's just so much fun. How could anybody not like this film? Rocky McKenzie is Willie, an aborigine boy in the late 1960s who is made to leave his home town of Broome to go to boarding school in Perth. The school is a Catholic School that trains its students to be priests. Willie is highly favoured by the school's headmaster, Father Benedictus (an eccentric "villain" played wonderfully by Geoffrey Rush), until he is caught stealing Coca-Cola from the school's kitchen. When Father Benedictus tries to punish Willie, he runs away on a journey back home to Broome. But Father Benedictus is hot on his heels, and Willie must then team up with some want-to-be hippies and an alcoholic old man to reach his goal.
This is a film much in the style of 1976's Bugsy Malone, a film that I absolutely adored. The story is pretty week and the plot has no point whatsoever. But it's just a wild, fun roller-coaster of a movie. The songs and comedic and catchy (especially a number called "Nothing I Would Rather Be" which takes place in the school's chapel), and the film moves along at a swift but pleasurable pace. It's a pretty corny movie, but then again, why shouldn't it be? It's a musical, and a pretty good one at that. Every scene is filled with an exciting dance number, a tender romance, or some loopy and hilarious joke of some sort. Of course, the story can't hold up to much scrutiny, but it's not supposed to. This film isn't interested in deep spiritual ideas or commentary on the human condition. It exists for no other reason but to entertain you, which I'm sure it will.
While I was watching this, I wasn't thinking about the convenience that almost everybody in this movie is heading to Broome, or that most of the characters (except maybe for the old man) are pretty shallow, or that for some reason when one person starts singing and dancing, everyone else somehow knows exactly what to do and organizes themselves into neat little dancing lines. I was just taken along for the ride, and I was loving every minute of it. I loved watching numerous Aborigines dancing on Church pews and somersaulting over the altar. I loved watching Geoffrey Rush attempt to do dance steps while disciplining people in a rather ridiculous German accent. I loved watching all these corny and ridiculous stereotypes interact before my eyes. And by the way, this film is filled with stereotypes. Stereotypes of Germans, Aborigines, old men, prostitutes, Priests, preachers, and hippies. Even so, this is far form a stereotypical film. It's one of the most original I've seen in a long time. There isn't one scene here that you would find in another film in the same context. It's goofy and weird and illogical, but who cares? We're having a great time.
Now, this isn't one of those musicals where the singing and dancing flow seamlessly together with the dialogue. In fact, sometimes when the characters suddenly start singing it's laugh-out-loud ridiculous. The musical numbers are in no way subtle. They stick out like a sore thumb. But does it really matter. Did we come to see this for an opera of some sort? No! We came to see Aborigines dance and Geoffrey Rush try to fake a German accent. And if we came expecting just that, you'll be more than impressed. However, if for some reason you want this film to explore some deep meanings, search elsewhere. This is not for you. At no point in this rather short movie was I bored. I was always waiting to see what happens next and what crazy misadventure young Willie will encounter. This movie entertains. That's what it does. It entertained me like I haven't been entertained in a while. Now I'm not saying I don't like serious films. I probably even prefer them to this sort of thing. But every once in a while, I just want to be entertained. That's what I got from Bran Nue Dae.
From a technical standpoint, the film is also pretty impressive. I am extremely fond of the photography in this film. Every shot has a meaning to it. There is one particular scene in which two lovers are swimming with each other under water. It's so perfect and simple. There isn't a flaw in that scene. The colours in the movie are rich and the shots memorable. Andrew Lesney (The Lord of the Rings, King Kong) has outdone himself this time. The overall colour scheme of the film seems to be yellow orange and blue, and it works exceptionally well. It's a shame that this film won't get much notice up here in America. I find it extremely unfortunate that we must search clear over to Australia to find descent entertainment these days. American films form Hollywood are becoming more dumb and generic every year, while the independent and foreign films make a come-back. Unfortunately, the general public will hardly see any of these alternatives, but instead will continue to go to these mind-numbing, Hollywood CGI fests. Last year's Best Picture winner, The Hurt Locker, only received a fraction of the recognition it deserved. Well, enough of these sentiments.
In a decade full of new and exciting musicals, Bran Nue Dae is one of the most original and creative. The songs are catchy and the characters witty and the photography striking. I liked this movie a lot, and I wish it the best of luck when the awards season comes around later this year.
www.colewebbharter.com
This is a film much in the style of 1976's Bugsy Malone, a film that I absolutely adored. The story is pretty week and the plot has no point whatsoever. But it's just a wild, fun roller-coaster of a movie. The songs and comedic and catchy (especially a number called "Nothing I Would Rather Be" which takes place in the school's chapel), and the film moves along at a swift but pleasurable pace. It's a pretty corny movie, but then again, why shouldn't it be? It's a musical, and a pretty good one at that. Every scene is filled with an exciting dance number, a tender romance, or some loopy and hilarious joke of some sort. Of course, the story can't hold up to much scrutiny, but it's not supposed to. This film isn't interested in deep spiritual ideas or commentary on the human condition. It exists for no other reason but to entertain you, which I'm sure it will.
While I was watching this, I wasn't thinking about the convenience that almost everybody in this movie is heading to Broome, or that most of the characters (except maybe for the old man) are pretty shallow, or that for some reason when one person starts singing and dancing, everyone else somehow knows exactly what to do and organizes themselves into neat little dancing lines. I was just taken along for the ride, and I was loving every minute of it. I loved watching numerous Aborigines dancing on Church pews and somersaulting over the altar. I loved watching Geoffrey Rush attempt to do dance steps while disciplining people in a rather ridiculous German accent. I loved watching all these corny and ridiculous stereotypes interact before my eyes. And by the way, this film is filled with stereotypes. Stereotypes of Germans, Aborigines, old men, prostitutes, Priests, preachers, and hippies. Even so, this is far form a stereotypical film. It's one of the most original I've seen in a long time. There isn't one scene here that you would find in another film in the same context. It's goofy and weird and illogical, but who cares? We're having a great time.
Now, this isn't one of those musicals where the singing and dancing flow seamlessly together with the dialogue. In fact, sometimes when the characters suddenly start singing it's laugh-out-loud ridiculous. The musical numbers are in no way subtle. They stick out like a sore thumb. But does it really matter. Did we come to see this for an opera of some sort? No! We came to see Aborigines dance and Geoffrey Rush try to fake a German accent. And if we came expecting just that, you'll be more than impressed. However, if for some reason you want this film to explore some deep meanings, search elsewhere. This is not for you. At no point in this rather short movie was I bored. I was always waiting to see what happens next and what crazy misadventure young Willie will encounter. This movie entertains. That's what it does. It entertained me like I haven't been entertained in a while. Now I'm not saying I don't like serious films. I probably even prefer them to this sort of thing. But every once in a while, I just want to be entertained. That's what I got from Bran Nue Dae.
From a technical standpoint, the film is also pretty impressive. I am extremely fond of the photography in this film. Every shot has a meaning to it. There is one particular scene in which two lovers are swimming with each other under water. It's so perfect and simple. There isn't a flaw in that scene. The colours in the movie are rich and the shots memorable. Andrew Lesney (The Lord of the Rings, King Kong) has outdone himself this time. The overall colour scheme of the film seems to be yellow orange and blue, and it works exceptionally well. It's a shame that this film won't get much notice up here in America. I find it extremely unfortunate that we must search clear over to Australia to find descent entertainment these days. American films form Hollywood are becoming more dumb and generic every year, while the independent and foreign films make a come-back. Unfortunately, the general public will hardly see any of these alternatives, but instead will continue to go to these mind-numbing, Hollywood CGI fests. Last year's Best Picture winner, The Hurt Locker, only received a fraction of the recognition it deserved. Well, enough of these sentiments.
In a decade full of new and exciting musicals, Bran Nue Dae is one of the most original and creative. The songs are catchy and the characters witty and the photography striking. I liked this movie a lot, and I wish it the best of luck when the awards season comes around later this year.
www.colewebbharter.com
Could be lot better
daly-robyn23 January 2011
Sadly, this film needs much tighter editing and better musical direction, also the dubbing and Foley are amateurish. There are some OK performances: Geoffrey Rush and Magda Szubanski are good (no surprise there), Ernie Dingo is charming (again, no surprise) and the scenery is terrific - this is a part of Australia that's not well-known yet is very photogenic. The songs are just OK, not fabulous but they serve the story, however the backing music is often jarring and like a 70's sitcom in its lack of subtlety. I think the musical has all kinds of potential as a film, but this version misses out. It's a shame, more attention to detail could have made this a real winner.
A Feel Good Movie *thumbs up*
LadyDrizzle14 January 2010
Today I went and saw "Bran Nue Day," I have seen the trailer a few times before its release and I've got to say it looked really good and I could tell it was going to be a very good movie, My friends had a few doubts due to the fact Jess Mauboy and Missy Higgns have never acted before. But now actually seeing the movie i found that not a problem at all, I think the person who played Willie was a brilliant actor (Not sure of the actors name) and I think Erine Dingo was the highlight of the cast playing Uncle Tadpole. Myself and the rest of the cinema found ourselves laughing a lot and I couldn't help keeping a big stupid grin on my face, The music was just fantastic and if i had know the lyrics i would've sung along, but instead i just tapped my foot, It was the best movie i have seen in a long time, A feel good, Aussie, Musical, Comedy, Adventure movie. I recommend it to anyone, any age, from anywhere, The only down side is that Jess Mauboy was a tiny bit cheesy and was a bit of a let down compared to everyone else but did a very good job for her first time acting. Props to Missy Higgns for making me love the film even more, Her sining and acting, just superb.
What was the point?
crystal_pantha28 August 2009
This movie is absolutely ridiculous, random and - ultimately - confusing. Although the acting was reasonable, the film's genre alluded me: was it a musical, romance, comedy, adventure? It attempts to cross all these areas, but fails and becomes scattered and hap-hazard. Then there's the plot (or lack of!): is it about getting the girl? Defying people's expectations of you? A road trip? Getting home? Self-discovery? The film's lack of purpose leaves the viewer confused and lost, and the obviously recorded then synchronized songs don't help. And the ending!! It has to be the most laughable, you've-got-to-be-kidding-me closing scene I've ever seen: twist after twist after stupid, ridiculous twist. In conclusion, I'd recommend watching this movie if and only if you are incredibly bored, don't mind your intelligence being insulted, and want a good laugh at how hopeless the characters and plot are.
Quite a let-down
spy_stephen7 July 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I really don't know what happened here. I don't normally like this type of movie, so I expected to see a movie that wasn't my cup of tea, but still a high standard so I could enjoy it for what it was. Instead, I got a jumbled mixture of good actors shown in the worst light or B-grade acting.
Rocky McKenzie had a lot put on his shoulders. In the first half hour, he needed to portray a boy who was relatively happy with his life, struggling with normal teenage emotions. He is then ripped from his home from lack of assertiveness, yet his disappointment is not well displayed. He is then expected to explore an inner-conflict between his good nature and the poor direction that this church institute offers, then have his emotions get the better of him, and then be stuck without a home and as far as he is aware rejected by his family. This is a massive requirement, and for all this to be expressed properly in a short space of time you need a brilliant actor and great directing. We were not drawn into his story however because of breaks in dramatic tension (such as the song when he leaves the church placed in the middle of being told off, rather than before or after).
To the movie's credit (and the only reason it even got 3 points from me), the first scene with Ernie is very good. This is the only scene where the acting and scripting came together to form that picture of their sad existence, even the humour came with a cynical touch that kept the sad state of their existence in our minds. This brought about some form of textual integrity, in which all parts of the scene formed a purpose, in contrast to the haphazard and incoherent distribution of techniques and ideas present throughout the rest of the Movie.
I am not faulting Actors such as Geoffrey Rush, because they are amazing, but in the roles they were given these actors could not save this movie. So much rested on the twists and turns of Willi's life, that his part and his movement between the rest of the scenes had to be scripted with more purpose, such that the movie conveyed its ideas coherently. Some amazing acting was also required to draw together the cabaret elements in this movie to form something that doesn't look like it's been made by my local musical society.
Rocky McKenzie had a lot put on his shoulders. In the first half hour, he needed to portray a boy who was relatively happy with his life, struggling with normal teenage emotions. He is then ripped from his home from lack of assertiveness, yet his disappointment is not well displayed. He is then expected to explore an inner-conflict between his good nature and the poor direction that this church institute offers, then have his emotions get the better of him, and then be stuck without a home and as far as he is aware rejected by his family. This is a massive requirement, and for all this to be expressed properly in a short space of time you need a brilliant actor and great directing. We were not drawn into his story however because of breaks in dramatic tension (such as the song when he leaves the church placed in the middle of being told off, rather than before or after).
To the movie's credit (and the only reason it even got 3 points from me), the first scene with Ernie is very good. This is the only scene where the acting and scripting came together to form that picture of their sad existence, even the humour came with a cynical touch that kept the sad state of their existence in our minds. This brought about some form of textual integrity, in which all parts of the scene formed a purpose, in contrast to the haphazard and incoherent distribution of techniques and ideas present throughout the rest of the Movie.
I am not faulting Actors such as Geoffrey Rush, because they are amazing, but in the roles they were given these actors could not save this movie. So much rested on the twists and turns of Willi's life, that his part and his movement between the rest of the scenes had to be scripted with more purpose, such that the movie conveyed its ideas coherently. Some amazing acting was also required to draw together the cabaret elements in this movie to form something that doesn't look like it's been made by my local musical society.
Kooky Feel Good Musical
jmason72-117 January 2010
I didn't know the story of this movie - but was completely sucked in by the previews. What a fabulous movie. It's incredibly funny and odd and there is just some amazing cinematography.
It's a musical and the premise is that Rocky is studying to be a priest - we know from the outset that he's in love with Rosie (Jess Mauboy who is just going to be a superstar after this). After standing up to the head priest, Rocky takes off and heads home to Broome.
On the way he meets his 'Uncle Tadpole', and two hippies touring WA, a drunken prostitute who all end up on his journey home - all whilst the head priest is chasing him down.
There is one scene in particular which just blew my mind, jumps on the back of truck with a bunch of Aboriginal Footballers. Zorba the Greek starts playing and the footy team begin doing an amazing traditional dance which had the audience whooping with delight. Amazing! It's the little things in this movie that work so well and are so touching. And one point our hapless road gang are arrested after Uncle Tadpole steals from a Roadshop. Whilst the whites and the inexperienced Rocy fight the cops - Roxy and Uncle Tadpole walk to the cells without fight or comment.
Whilst the ending is ridiculous, who cares - at my screening the audience burst into applause. Everyone walked out on a high. If you're a Muriel's Wedding fan and you like your movies kinda kooky - then you'll enjoy this. This is feel good stuff.
Cheers!
It's a musical and the premise is that Rocky is studying to be a priest - we know from the outset that he's in love with Rosie (Jess Mauboy who is just going to be a superstar after this). After standing up to the head priest, Rocky takes off and heads home to Broome.
On the way he meets his 'Uncle Tadpole', and two hippies touring WA, a drunken prostitute who all end up on his journey home - all whilst the head priest is chasing him down.
There is one scene in particular which just blew my mind, jumps on the back of truck with a bunch of Aboriginal Footballers. Zorba the Greek starts playing and the footy team begin doing an amazing traditional dance which had the audience whooping with delight. Amazing! It's the little things in this movie that work so well and are so touching. And one point our hapless road gang are arrested after Uncle Tadpole steals from a Roadshop. Whilst the whites and the inexperienced Rocy fight the cops - Roxy and Uncle Tadpole walk to the cells without fight or comment.
Whilst the ending is ridiculous, who cares - at my screening the audience burst into applause. Everyone walked out on a high. If you're a Muriel's Wedding fan and you like your movies kinda kooky - then you'll enjoy this. This is feel good stuff.
Cheers!
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