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Ho Ho Ho – A Savage Christmas

25 November 2023 Rebecca Yeo

Prepare for things to get savage in the latest Australian Christmas flick from director Madeleine Dyer. In A Savage Christmas, transwoman Davina heads home after three years.

Davina anticipates the spotlight to shine on her transition but is surprised as family secrets and lies come to light. These revelations pose a threat to not only their lives but also to another Christmas lunch. A Savage Christmas is a fun addition to a long list of films centred around Christmas.

In A Savage Christmas, we meet the Savage family. Their Christmas day is set to be much like their last name – Savage! The family get together to celebrate the jolly day over lunch. Each family member brings their own issues that come to light as the day progresses. Can the family mend their relationships, or will this year be their last family Christmas?

The ensemble cast of characters successfully demonstrated believability as a dysfunctional family, each with a unique story. Some well-known actors pop up to add another comedy element to the story. We saw supporting roles from the likes of Gary Sweet as a thug and Rachel Griffith as a doctor.

The film’s writers have crafted a group of eccentric characters in amusing situations with witty dialogue delivered from some new and familiar faces.
Throughout the film, we glimpse the typical Australian humour paired with some important topics such as gender identity and adoption.

At times, almost too many topics were included, unfortunately ensuring that most were only partially explored. It was refreshing, however, to see two trans characters take the lead in this movie.

The final scenes highlight the significance of family and forgiveness, which viewers may recognise as relatable to their own family chaos.

This is not one that I would add to my regular yearly Christmas viewing, but it is a lighthearted flick that provides comedic relief during a busy time of the year and is well worth a viewing.

Check your local cinema for session viewing times.

This review also appears on It’s On The House, with more reviews at Dark Stories Theatre Reviews to see what else is on in your town.

Paris Memories: A Survivor’s Journey

27 October 2023 Rebecca Yeo

Prepare for your latest French Film experience – Paris Memories – soon to be showcased in cinemas throughout Australia.

Paris Memories delves into the story of Mia, a survivor of a recent bistro terrorist attack, who grapples with the haunting memories of that dreadful night. To move beyond the trauma, Mia embarks on a journey to retrace her steps and delve into her memories. The film offers an exploration of the aftermath of a catastrophic event, shedding light on the resilience of survivors as they try to rebuild their shattered lives.

Director Alice Winocour draws inspiration from her brother’s personal experience during the Bataclan attack in Paris. After being trapped in a terrorist attack at a bistro in Paris, Mia discovers herself affected by the ordeal. Three months after the event, she begins trying to remember what happened that day but also understands that some parts of her life can’t be fixed.

Virginie Efira’s portrayal of Mia earned her a Cesar award, and rightfully so. She masterfully conveys the multi-layered impact of a terrorist attack on an individual’s mental health. Nastya Carax takes on the role of Felicia, a young woman who tragically lost her parents in the same attack, serving as a reminder of the collateral damage such events inflict.

Mia’s discovery of a survivors’ support group becomes a turning point in her journey to recovery. This unique approach sets the film apart, as it favours witnessing Mia’s memories resurface as she progresses instead of conventional flashbacks. The film illustrates human connections that form among survivors as they collectively grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy.

Paris Memories is a powerful film that will stay with viewers well after the viewing and is not one to be overlooked. Don’t miss the chance to experience it on the big screen starting November 9th. Check your local cinema listings for showtimes. Au revoir!

This review also appears on It’s On The House, or checkout more reviews at Dark Stories Theatre Reviews.

Jack Warner – The Last Mogul

12 October 2023 Rebecca Yeo

Depending on your location, the 2023 Jewish International Film Festival (JFF) is fast approaching, from 23rd October to 29th November. This year’s JFF will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Warner Bros by showcasing the documentary Jack L. Warner: The Last Mogul.

The Last Mogul tells the story of the reigning figure, Jack L. Warner. Emerging from modest beginnings, he and his brothers embarked on a journey that led to the creation of Warner Bros Studios. Remarkably, for over half a century, Jack Warner held the crown of this cinematic empire, leaving a mark on the history of motion pictures. This documentary provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of Jack Warner.

Directed by the grandson of Jack L. Warner, Gregory Orr, The Last Mogul is a documentary with a mix of archival interviews, footage, and photos. Throughout the documentary, we learn more about how the movie business and Warner Bros became what they are today. It was fascinating to see where film began, and it’s a journey through the generations as social attitudes changed and the technology advanced.

Although this documentary was like many that had come before it, it is still a fascinating look into the man who made the likes of Humphrey Bogart a star. Our interest throughout the film was maintained as we heard the life story of Jack L. Warner unfold. His life story came from those who knew him best. These interviewees made for a story that was impactful and credible.

Experience ‘Jack Warner: The Last Mogul’ for a glimpse into the legacy of film and the man who helped to shape its success and has become a historically significant figure. Watch the documentary at this year’s Jewish International Film Festival on the 19 June. That’s all folks!

Look for a film session in your town.

2023 JFF Festival Dates:

MELBOURNE
Classic Cinemas: 23 October – 29 November
Lido Cinemas: 24 October – 28 November

SYDNEY
Ritz Cinemas: 24 October – 28 November
Roseville Cinemas: 2 November – 19 November

HOBART
State Cinema: 2 November – 12 November

PERTH
Luna Palace Cinemas: 16 November – 6 December

BRISBANE
New Farm Cinemas: 16 November – 26 November

CANBERRA
Dendy Cinemas: 15 November – 22 November

GOLD COAST
Dendy Cinemas Southport: 16 November – 22 November

This review also appears on It’s On The House or return to the Dark Stories Theatre homepage for more reviews.

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The Crime is Mine – French Comedy Murder Mystery Film

27 September 2023 Rebecca Yeo

The Crime is Mine is the latest from acclaimed director François Ozon and features French stars Isabelle Huppert and Dany Boon, supported by a stellar cast including Fabrice Luchini, André Dussollier, Nadia Tereszkiewicz, and Rebecca Marder. Take a step back to 1930s Paris, as ‘The Crime Is Mine’ follows young and struggling actress Madeline and her loyal friend Pauline.

The film begins with Madeleine being accused of murdering a renowned producer. Assisted by her friend Pauline, a jobless young lawyer, Madeleine is acquitted, claiming self-defence. Astonishingly, her life transforms into one of fame and fortune, with secrets lurking beneath the surface.

The first thing that stood out was the chemistry between the lead females, Madeline (Nadia Tereskiewicz) and Pauline (Rebecca Marder). There is a theme of sisterhood between this pair throughout the film. Pauline consistently goes the extra mile to ensure a lavish lifestyle for the two friends. Another humorous addition to the cast was Isabelle Huppert, who plays former silent film star Odette Chaumette.

François Ozon sets the scene of the 1930s with his visual style, over-the-top acting and a series of plot twists, each more unlikely than the last. The potential flashback scenes of the murder were almost straight out of an old silent film from the 1930s era. Much like films from this era, characters can switch from serious to funny.

The costumes and make-up add to the story as they reflect the period. We watch Madeleine and Pauline’s outfits become more extravagant as the story evolves. The over-the-top outfits worn by Odette added to the larger-than-life character. The production design and soundtrack contribute to the atmosphere set in The Crime is Mine.

The Crime is Mine is an entertaining film that makes comedy and murder work in the same story. It is not always clear where the film will take you next, and the plot twists are funny and unexpected. Although there is some over-acting, this was intentional and not to be taken too seriously.

With more than 1 million admissions at the French box office, The Crime is Mine is the European comedy hit of 2023 and will be released in Australian cinemas on Thursday, 12th October. Oui oui!

This review also appears on It’s On The House.

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