VHS : Welcome To Woop Woop [1997]

Rating: - First Class Whacko Comedy
I agree with the general review; it is a shame this film hasn't had wider exposure. Was lucky enough to catch it on TV here in Italy. Missed the opening credits and kept thinking, as I laughed my way through the film, that it had the same freshness and wonderful attention to detail as "Priscilla Queen of the Desert". So was not surprised to finally discover it was directed by Stephan Elliott, director of Priscilla.

A wild comic opera that boasts a large and brilliant cast of actors (including Johnathon Schaech and Rod Taylor) who hold nothing back and have that ability to make us totally believe the farce on view.

Amidst all the bizarre mayhem, there is an innocence and sexiness in this film that never forgets where its heart is. A terrific script, great costumes and sets, and a brilliant score. The use of Rogers & Hammerstein classics as a background to the totally surreal Woop Woop and its citizens is brilliant. Besides adding to the humour, the way they're used also reminds one of how brilliant the songs are.

What a shame its not available for purchase right now. Try to see it. If you like comedy, and particularly Australian comedy, you'll love this "'Mad Max' meets 'Lil Abner' meets 'The Sound of Music' meets '1984'(where Rod Taylor's Daddie tries to watch everyone, at least when he's not pissed in front of the telly watching footy)" delight. Rod Taylor's bar top tap dance is truly electrifying (as is the image of Johnathon Schaech spread-eagled in a pig sty wearing only his D&G briefs; but seriously, Schaech goes beyond the male pin-up category here, showing an easy, delightful and believable flare for comedy.)

The language is pretty raw so you probably won't want to be watching this one with the kids. Woop Woop is a place where amazement and happiness (be it Angie seeing the sea for the first time and plunging topless into the surf, or Angie's farting mother hearing the news that Angie is "up the duff", etc., etc.) is greeted with "F__k me dead." You might call it the town motto. Might become yours after seeing the film.

A real gem that easily joins Priscilla, Strictly Ballroom, Muriel's Wedding up there at the top of Australian film comedy.