April 15, 2023

Film Review – Seriously Red (2022)

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The societal subculture of celebrity impersonators including active existential cosplay is explored in this Australian feel-good awkward situational-comedy, written by and starring courageous Krew Boylan as Dolly Parton aficionado, Red.

Not really enjoying or fitting in working at a real estate firm, Red (Boylan) strives to pursue her dream of being Dolly.

Singing her tunes whilst maintaining mannerisms, including her distinct voice as a spectacle at a range of parties and karaoke clubs.

An out of the blue opportunity arises to be part of a touring posse of singer impersonators, offering Red a chance to team up with their world renowned number one entertainer imitator, Kenny Rogers (Daniel Weber).

Success singing together is immediate, but mishaps including falling in love become hurdles for Red embarking on new, hassle free horizons.

If it hadn’t already, Dolly takes over her life masking the true identity of Red.

Emotional principles or connections with those who have stuck by her side during the real estate years, family and friends are left by the wayside, in particular her loving, although often negatively opinionated mum (Jean Kittson) and best friend Francis (Thomas Campbell).

Lovingly directed by lovely Gracie Otto, sadly the would be hilarity of certain manic situations is mind bogglingly unfunny then turns a corner into seriousness by I’ll admit, an uplifting finale.

The costumes by Tim Chappel deserve a thumbs up, as does bumbling Boylan.

Going all out, Krew actually creates anxiety as Red watching her clumsiness on screen. A hair-on-fire scene is excruciating, as is another concerning drunken antics during a work party.
Rocky Horror Picture Show legend Little Nell pops up in a cameo as a ‘Doctor of enlargements’.

Hollywood heavyweight, Bobby Cannavale co-stars as a former faux Neil Diamond whilst his real life partner, Australian national treasure Rose Byrne is purposely creepy, albeit excellent as the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley. Speaking of music royalty, Dolly Parton herself officially endorsed the Seriously Red, darn tootin!

★★


Comedy, Drama | Australia, 2022 | 15 | Digital | 13th February 2023 (UK) | Signature Entertainment | Dir.Gracie Otto | Krew Boylan, Daniel Webber, Rose Byrne, Celeste Barber, Bobby Cannavale

Follow Shane A. Bassett on Twitter @MovieAnalyst

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