No. 101 (2022) SERIOUSLY RED Dec. 6th.

 

Film No. 101  (2022)  December 6th.  12:10 AM  EVENT CINEMAS,  Cine 8,  Innaloo.

"There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who are here to have a good time, and those who are willing to learn" (The voice of Red as she recites yet another Dolly Parton philosophy).

Nominee: Grand Jury Prize; Bridgestone Narrative Feature Competition (Gracie Otto) Nashville Film Festival  2022.

P.J. Hogan (MURIEL'S WEDDING) and Stephan Elliott (PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT) mastered the, Aussie off-beat comedy with heart, flick in the 90's. They knew how to tie up the loose ends. Characters coming to terms with reality after perusing dreams that were not all they were "pumped up" to be. SERIOUSLY RED plots a similar course but doesn't quite hit the same heights. In no way however is that a reason not to enjoy this fun filled tale. 

Gracie Otto (Director) and lead, Krew Boylan (Writer) have teamed to create a 95 minute feature that nearly everyone will like, and a growing number will absolutely love. After all, the concept of a Dolly Parton impersonator from a humble suburban family making good on the international stage, is a winning idea. And Red (Boylan) is every bit the shining soul Dolly is.

The magic of SERIOUSLY RED is becoming immersed in the evolution of Raylene Delaney (or Red) from the insecure office clown, to professional entertainer. Her transition in confidence as she follows a Dollyism, "You'll Never Know If You Don't Give It A Go" is key to the film's schtick. Red's early renditions of Dolly classics are good, but amateurish. Her cover versions as she transitions to being a professional are outstanding. It's the story that lacks credence. 

We're never convinced that the mother (Jean Kittson)/daughter relationship is fractured. Red's mate Francis (Thomas Campbell) isn't given room in the script to fulfil the need he has for Red. Then the real love that happens between Kenny (Daniel Webber) and Red does just that - happen! The audience is locked out of the relationship legitimacy. That's the art of an excellent script. SERIOUSLY RED is a good script with seriously creative art and sound design.  9GUMS.