While The Sapphires are the main act, it’s Chris O’Dowd’s scuzzy Irishman who steals the show in a heartfelt yet tonally awkward film about soul music and racial identity during the chaotic ‘60s.
Independent Cinema writes: The Sapphires makes no attempt to hide its look at racism and prejudice, despite its seemingly “fun” exterior. Yes, it is filled with soul music, brash Aussie humor, and Chris O’Dowd, but that doesn’t make it any less a film about trying to find one’s self. Undeniably predictable, the film balances the perfect amount of heart and dramatic beats, all anchored by charming performances from its leading ladies and O’Dowd, making up for its generic ending and fairly typical rising star plot. If there is one feel-good movie worth checking out this year, it is The Sapphires which manages to shed light on the racial tensions of Australia during the 1960′s and subsequently show the everlasting bond within a community.
Larger-than-life sisters Gail, Cynthia and Julie, along with their wayward cousin Kay, have killer voices and attitudes to match. Performing Country and Western in an Australian outback singing contest, they catch the attention of Dave Lovelace (Chris O’Dowd), a struggling Irish musician with a penchant for whisky and a passion for soul music. It may not sound like a match made in heaven but Dave notices a sparkling talent in the girls and it becomes clear that they could be something special….they just need the right man to take them on. As they embark on a hilarious journey of highs and lows, courage and commitment, friendship and family, they discover that all you need to succeed is a little heart….and a lot of soul.
TF:
A feelgooder spiced by social conscience, this is one of those underdog productions with potential to punch well above its weight. Go on, give it a chance.
