Written and Directed by David Swann
Warren Mitchell - Albert
Peter Rowsthorn - Bruno
Susan Lyons - Hilary
Daniel Kellie as Joey
Terry Gill - Jack
Maggie King - Vi
Valerie Bader - Dotty
Christopher Chapman - Angus |
"Crackers" is the new holiday offering by upcoming director and writer David Swann. In the tradition of "The Castle" and "Muriel's Wedding", this is an Australian film which explores our suburban culture, and namely the institution of the family Christmas.
"Crackers" is told through the eyes of the thirteen year old Joey Dredge played brilliantly by Daniel Kellie. Joey lost his father in a flying accident a few years ago, and still hasn't dealt with the loss. Expelled from another school for again trying to fly off the roof, his despairing new age mother Hilary (Susan Lyons) decides to take a nice Christmas holiday with her Boyfriend Bruno and his son, down at her parents by the beach.
Hilary's parents are typical dysfunctional nuclear family. Her father is a beer drinking barbequing Elvis lover, played by Terry Gill. Her mother VI (Maggie King) is the repressed house wife, who's answer to everything is a bit of food. Living with them is also Vi's sister, Dotty, with a gusty laugh, lots of lipstick, a fag and bottle of wine always near. She's always up for the party.
The action starts rolling with the appearance of Joey's great grandfather Albert (Warren Mitchell), the delightful ex-con. Joey is forced to sleep with his great grandfather Albert out in the shed, where he farts, jokes and sings his way to form a very strong bond with Joey, which finally allows Joey to stand up for himself and accept his father's death.
"Crackers" is a great film, especially if you've ever had to endure those Christmases with the rellies! The jokes and action keep coming in a very slapstick style, from hash spiked fruit tarts, to illicit sex in the chook shed to barbequing the dog. It also includes fighting punks, making boats, sibling rivalry and practical jokes galore. This film has it all.
But not only does it keep you giggling all through out, it explores the deeper relationships of the suburban family in a touching and whimsical manner. And the introspection into a thirteen year olds mind is done brilliantly.
I can definitely recommend "Crackers" for some good holiday viewing. Great script and direction, great pace, characters and style and don't forget to keep an ear out for the quirky sound effects which punctuate the film.
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