1994
Directed by Stephan Elliot
Man, what is with everyone and ABBA? I personally think "Dancing Queen" is one of the most obnoxious songs ever created. Maybe "Surfin' Bird" is more annoying. My physical therapy center usually play both songs, in what I believe is an attempt to slowly break down my resistance.
Tick Belrose, a drag queen in Sydney, agrees to perform his drag act in a resort managed by his estranged wife in central Australia. He persuades his two friends and fellow performers, Bernadette and Felicia, to join him and the three obtain a tour bus (christened "Priscilla") for the journey. Along the way, they perform ABBA songs and meet a variety of characters, some of whom are horrific homophobes.
I am all for celebrating LGBT culture, but I can't honestly say I enjoyed this film. I found the plot to be rather predictable and I guessed many of the "twists" that I think were supposed to come as surprises. It also faced a problem that plagues many musicals. All of the scenes that didn't feature musical numbers felt like non essential filler.
Still, it was quite the visual spectacle and might be worth watching for that reason.
RATING: **---
Interesting Facts:
Colin Firth was the first choice to play Tick.
I discovered Surfin' Bird for the first time at the weekend. Thought it was great! Can see why it would annoy other people though.
ReplyDeleteHa ha ...Our utter mis-match on musicals continues.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I loath Abba, (OK, 'loath' is too strong. Let's try 'I find Abba songs excruciatingly irritating and.. I will pinch your word - obnoxious") ..... for some reason I love this film.
I just found it so much fun, and was with the guys and gall all through. OK, Adam could be an annoying petulant little git at times, but Stamp as Bernie .. wow.. what a character, what a portrayal.
Go on, .. as you say, what is it about people and Abba? And why do I find them so irritating?
I am not sure how to respond to that comment, Dessie. It's like when people say the Star Wars prequels are better than the originals. I just have no response! And Ray, The Brave Hearted Will Take The Bride is coming up. I loved it, so I assume you hated it.
ReplyDelete