Review of Looking for Alibrandi (2000) by Zoe M — 28 Aug 2008

Looking for Alibrandi is a coming-of-age drama about a girl torn between two worlds. She has her Italian heritage, and the expectations to match, along with the Sydney-sider teen world she must blend into.

This film had that lovely hand-held camera style which I so adore, and it perfected the tone of the film, rather than looking messy. The acting was fairly well done, except for the somewhat cheesy stuff at the beginning. Pia Miranda seemed to get better as the film went on. I liked the pop-culture music combined with the bookends of Italian folk styles that they used in the film, as it further exaggerated the clashing of two worlds.

I loved the comedy side of it, and I was laughing out loud at many points in the film. The script was golden, and the words felt right coming out of Josie's mouth. The movie was true to the novel, which is usually the downfall of many films, but it worked. Melina Marchetta's words fitted perfectly to the screen, which is unusual for a novel.

The most appealing thing about the film is that it appears so real. I felt like I could walk on down to the ANZAC bridge and see Josie screaming her head off on Jacob's bike. It felt natural.

I found this film personally touching because I can really relate to it. I know all the schools they talk about in the film, I recognise the locations and understand what George Street is, I know about all the pop culture references, and most of all, I know about the issues some people have when they're torn between two worlds. I don't think as many others would be able to appreciate this film because of the culture differences.

Overall, a brilliant aussie film, filled with glorious insight into the Australian teen's life. However, those who do not know what Oporto or a "wog" is should tread carefully.

8/10.

Moo-girl.