Director: Kate Woods
Producer: Robyn Kershaw
Writer: Melina Marchetta, based on her novel of the same title
Cinematographer: Toby Oliver
Pia Miranda: Josie Alibrandi
Kick Curry: Jacob Coote
Greta Scacchi: Christina Alibrandi
Anthony Lapaglia: Michael Alibrandi
Matthew Newton: John Barton
Leanne Carlow: Sera Conti
Diane Viduka: Anna Selicic
Leeanna Walsman: Carly Bishop
Elena Cotta: Nonna Katia
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You'll have to have had your head under the sand if you hadn't heard of a small Australian film that's giving Russell Crowe's epic a run for its money. Yes I'm talking about "Looking For Alibrandi", a film adaptation of the popular coming-of-age novel by Melina Marchetta. It's an ambitious film and deals with a board range of topics: elitism, multiculturalism, illegitimacy, betrayal, falling in love, suicide, and mostly, finding a place to belong. And it's its final focus that teens will find most appealing.
Our protagonist is Josephine Alibrandi, a smart Italian-Australian school girl on a scholarship but a rich Sydney private school. One year in her rather ordinary life rips a barrage of interesting encounters. And along the way we get great views of Sydney and a fine introduction to Australian music.
The performances are all excellent, especially of the lead role played by Pia Miranda - Some of you may remember her playing the amiable role of Toadie's girlfriend in Neighbours - and also Josie's best friend Sera. She's a laugh-and-a-half and Josie's grandmother is bound to create a reaction too.
Although there were many awkward moments, overall it's an enjoyable ride. I found it sad, funny and heart-warming, and some scenes are particularly memorable - But I won't diverge, because when you see the film, you'll know what I mean. And it's great to see an Aussie film being slightly courageous and ambitious. It critiques and celebrates the characters showing both affection and disdain for their idiosyncratic ways.
Go see it. It's not perfect but it's well worth a visit.
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