Double or Nothing

I was fortunate enough to see an early screening of Double or Nothing at BIFF - and now I NEED to take my dad and my partner because they are going to love it!! Seriously!!!

As a female who doesn't usually love this genre, I friggin LOVED it!!!

So much intelligent brilliance - I was hooked from start to finish. It's clever, intense, with the right amount of added humour it's just so well done.

One of my first thoughts after watching was how authentic it felt, you know how you often say when you watch the classics "they don't make movies like this anymore" - Double or Nothing felt like that, it was actually so refreshing to watch a movie with soul in it. It's got style but never felt overdone.

Trust me, go see it!!

Attending the premiere of this film was an absolute delight. It's immediately evident that passion, grit, and dedication went into every frame of this production. Drawing inspiration from gritty '90s cult favourites like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and the Australian classic Two Hands, this film carves out a distinct identity while paying homage to cinematic greats.

Andrew Ian Hope delivers a standout performance as Turbo, capturing both intensity and charm. Tracey Filmer surprises with her portrayal of Bernie-a scene-stealing role that guarantees genuine laughs. The Gold Coast setting brings a sun-drenched, Miami-like backdrop that elevates the film's aesthetic, while clever nods to Ipswich (4305 represent!) offer a grounded, local authenticity rarely seen on screen.

The casting is equally impressive, featuring seasoned veterans like Vince Colosimo (Deacon) and John Jarrett (Col), whose presence adds gravitas. At the heart of the story is Nicole Payten-Betts as Mel, delivering both emotional depth and creative vision-her role as producer speaks volumes about the personal investment and care behind this project.

This film is a testament to Queensland's filmmaking prowess and a reminder that great stories can come from home soil. With heart, humour, and hard-hitting performances, it's on track to become a true cult classic.

8/10.

Double or Nothing was an absolute delight to watch from start to finish. The spotlight on local shooting locations, particularly the Gold Coast, gave the film a uniquely Australian feel that really stood out. The cast featured an excellent blend of fresh faces and established actors, all of whom brought great energy and chemistry to the screen. The storyline felt original and exciting, with just the right mix of drama, charm, and laugh-out-loud moments. It was a fun, fast-paced film that didn't take itself too seriously, and that's exactly what made it so enjoyable. A fantastic watch and recommend to anyone who wants a good laugh!

How refreshing it was to find a well written Australian produced film without the usual cliche dialogue. Double or Nothing was witty, very humorous and a fabulous story line, including some good unexpected turns. All characters were spot on - with the expected great acting from the main stars, John Jarratt, Vince Colosimo, Robert Rabiah & Vince Mouzakis, I also especially enjoyed the character Mel, an exceptional realistic actress, and Andrew Ian Pope, who was Turbo. Apart from all the fun it was such a captivating storyline of the black comedy genre that has you enthralled from beginning to end, along the lines of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels; I loved that it wasn't predictable. This is a great Aussie film, which I thoroughly recommend - don't miss it.

Australia has long had a fascination for exposing the Underbelly of the criminal world that "most of the time" quietly operates below the surface of the "True Blue" exterior (maybe its all those bushranger...no idea).

Films such as Animal Kingdom, Two Hands, Gettin' Square and Chopper has played in this sand box, all presenting potentially horrific or completely illegal situations with a distinct Aussie wink and a nudge.

The lastest film from independent filmmaker, Dru Brown, keeps this tradition moving swiftly forward and well and truly alive within "Double or Nothing" - a crime caper set behind the backdrop of the Gold Coast.

With a Stella cast featuring John Jarratt, Vince Colosimo, Steve Mouzakis and Erin Connor, the whole caper is anchored by our two leads in Rowan Howard as the sympathetic crim trying to go straight, Nick and troublesome cousin played by Andrew Ian Pope.

Whilst the cinematic format brings life to these colour characters on the big screen, it definitely lends itself to "further adventures" of our entire cast in a television format to further flush out story beats and character development.

Check out this great little Aussie film. Recommend. 👍