No. 70 (2021) POPPY (Cinefest Oz 2021) AUGUST 28th.

 

Film No. 70 (2021)  August 28th.  12:30 PM   Cinema 3   ORANA CINEMAS,  Bussleton   W.A. 

"I'll fix your next car and it's not going to cost you anything because you don't pay me!" (Poppy calls brother Pete out for his lack of financial recompense to his hard working sister).

"Everyone has the right to fulfil their potential," is the catch cry screaming from the screen as POPPY, the story a young lady with downs syndrome, plays out. And the story of Libby Hunsdale playing the lead role is a prime example of the statement itself. Hunsdale wins over her audience in spades and all while learning dialogue and moving within the confines film shoots. She masters each scene like the professional she is becoming.

But more importantly POPPY does in no way try to be anything it is not. It is a sweet dramedy that is contrived in such a way that families,(mainly New Zealand families) can sit and watch a film preaching tolerance. This time not pressing themes of race but rather the issues of people with particular needs finding their way into a life they can enjoy without being treated as "different". Poppy has a passion for fast cars, and mechanical ingenuity. Her attitude is that she has no reason not to excel in her chosen field.    

The clunky storyline is predictable but that's the whole point of a thoughtful film with a simple message. Ari Boyland plays Poppie's stressed brother Dave. He has a young Russell Crowe look about him and an assured presence to match. They form the key partnership here and while the back story to their commitment for one another is unpacked slowly, I did crave more depth to some of the sub-plots.

POPPY has not been bought by a major distributor so far, my bet however is that it will become available on a New Zealand and Australian based streaming network in the months ahead. Writer/Director Linda Miccol has been brave in taking on, as her first feature film, one that likely will have a small audience initially. I think Poppy might just warm enough hearts that word will spread. A Netfix gig might well be beckoning. 8GUMS.