Overview
The Sapphires is a feel-good, sparkle-spangled film uncovering the journey of four Aboriginal girls as they are plucked from a remote Australian mission and thrust onto the world stage performing for black US marines in Vietnam in 1968.
The film was not only snapped up by The Weinstein Company for North American release before it even premiered at the Cannes Festival earlier this year, but it also received an impressive 10-minute standing ovation following its midnight screening at the festival.
The Sapphires is an adaptation of the iconic stage musical of the same name, inspired by the true story of writer Tony Brigg's mother and three aunts. The charismatic quartet is played by AFI award-winning Deborah Mailman, who plays the protective mama-bear, Gail, newby Miranda Tapsell as the sassy sister Cynthia, Aussie pop sensation Jessica Mauboy portraying the feisty younger sister Julie, and Shari Sebbens as the estranged cousin, Kay, brought up with a white family in Melbourne as part of the stolen generation.
The girls are spotted by Irish soul-lover Dave (Bridesmaids' Chris O'Dowd), who has a kind heart and an ear for raw talent. Under the condition that they switch from their beloved country western style to the toe-tapping beats of soul, Dave takes the four divas under his wing and secures them a spot on a tour performing for the Vietnam troops.
The racial struggle and social upheaval of the heady days of the late '60s and the Vietnam War are largely overshadowed by exuberant songs, complete with Motown, Stax and Atlantic Records classics, soulful performances and lessons learned about love, life and friendship.
Director and first-time filmmaker Wayne Blair has produced an effervescent and upbeat movie which will be sure to get you belting out hit tunes from the likes of Marvin Gaye, Linda Lyndell and Jackson Five. Mention must also go to O'Dowd, who delivers a hilarious performance with his clumsy character that will leave you giggling long after the credits roll. The film is opening the world-renowned Melbourne International Film Festival on August 3 and hits cinemas on August 9.
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