Looking for Alibrandi
Josie is a powerhouse, extremely sharp, cuts people down to size. Her emotional defense of herself is admirable and her jabs and attacks are impressive. The brutality of the writing is painful yet feels justified.
The complex family dynamics are gorgeous because no one is painted the villain.
Most characters have an incredible depth and realness.
The humour is hilarious and subtle and nothing feels forced.
The emotion climaxes are poignant and are presented delicately.
This movie somehow managed to explore mother-daughter, grandmother-daughter, father-daughter, friendships and budding relationships all within 100 minutes without it feeling cluttered or weak.
Even the school dance scene near the beginning of the film had a gorgeous series of closeups showing the faces of different couples as they laughed or smiled or felt uncomfortable or chatted or nestled into eachother glowing with bliss.
This movie is so beautiful and I highly recommend to anyone who likes dramas, light comedy, REAL people films or Australian cinema.
A masterpiece