Josh Jarman

I went along to Josh Jarman at the Melbourne International Film Festival without knowing anything about the film, except that it was a comedy/romance. I was somewhat worried because a number of Australian comedies over the last couple of years had certainly failed to bring much of a smile to my face, let alone a laugh. But was I in for a surprise. Not only does this film provide plenty of laughs throughout, with two or three really hilarious scenes, but it also manages to pull a heart string or two at just the right places.

Quite simply, this movie is a little gem. Well written, brilliant acting and creatively directed. If you're expecting to see Marcus Graham as a cool, suave hero character like in his TV work, then think again. Here he plays a down on his luck, nervous and somewhat gawky playwright trying to get his play produced in a big theatre, and he is fabulous. Daniela Farinacci, Kestie Morassi and Kim Gyngell are very strong in their parts but it is Damien Richardson as Josh's best friend and flatmate who almost steals the show. He is both funny and tragic in a performance that I hope will result in him getting lots more work in the future.

The audience seemed to enjoy this film as much as I did. There was plenty of laughter throughout and indeed in the more dramatic climax (of which I won't spoil the story here) you could almost hear a pin drop in the theatre. Indeed I heard two audience members proclaim on the way out that it was the best Australian film they'd seen since Lantana.

I see a lot of Australian films and it is along time since I've come out of the cinema feeling so happy and satisfied. Well done to the filmmakers, I look forward to their next effort.