The Sapphires

Movies based or inspired by a true story are, a lot of times, more incredible than fiction. Maybe this is why Hollywood has recently been obsessed with this concept. Within the last year or two, films based on true stories have run the gambit-- "Emperor", "Gangster Squad", "Hyde Park on Hudson", "Pain & Gain", "Lincoln", "42", and now to add to that list, we have "The Sapphires" in the offing.

1968 was the year that changed the world. And for four young Aboriginal sisters from a remote mission in Australia, this is the year that would change their lives forever. Around the globe, there was a protest and revolution in the streets. Indigenous Australians finally secured the right to vote. There were drugs and the shock of a brutal assassination--Dr. Martin Luther King. And there was Vietnam.
The sisters, Gail, Julie, Kay, and Cynthia (Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy, Shari Sebbens,and Miranda Tapsell) respectively, are discovered by Dave Lovelace (Chris O'Dowd), a talent scout with a kind heart, very little rhythm, but a great knowledge of soul music. Billed as Australia's answer to 'The Supremes', Dave secures the sisters their first true gig, and flies them to Vietnam to sing for the American troops. Being inspired by a true story, "The Sapphires" is a celebration of youthful emotion, family and music.

Others to round out the cast are Tory Kittles as Robby, Kay's boyfriend, Eka Darville as Hendo, the band's drummer, Lynette Narkle as Nanny Theresa, Kylie Belling as Geraldine, Gregory J. Fryer as Selwyn, Don Battee as Myron Ritchie, and T.J. Power as Lt. Jensen.

This was directed with emotion and finesse by Wayne Blair (Shorts and TV). The pacing of this was spot on, and considering this is Blair's first feature film as director, he should go far in this biz. It was written by Keith Thompson ("The Rocks" (TV movie) '88, "Bachelor Girl" '88, "Small Claims" (TV movie) '04, "Introducing the Dwights" '07, and tons of TV), and Tony Briggs based on his play, "The Sapphires". The research of this had to be accurate, considering that Briggs is the son of one of the sisters of The Sapphires. It was well written, however there were places where it kind of jumped around a little.

The film's story was based and originated in Australia, and the fact that this Australian made, just adds to that realism that much more. The chemistry between the sisters and Dave, their manager was incredible, and their drive to succeed will have you standing on your feet cheering them on.

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                       Rated: PG-13                     100mins.