'Pud' remains a cultural icon long after its inception and has become a staple of Australiana. Some would argue that depth of 'Pud' doesn't warrant a retrospective like this, but that becomes a reductive interpretation of what would become Australia's most revered, evocative festive joke, and this short video becomes one of 2024's most important releases.
This insightful documentary explores not only the creation of the sketch that became so engrained in the public lexicon for years after, but also the shockwaves it made online and in the greater world around Pud. Matt Preston of Masterchef fame provides such a balanced commentary around food and its significance as not only sustenance, but as art, in both the creation of food and celebration.
Aunty Donna tell a resounding tale, filled with passion and honesty. A truly sobering truth about the reality of comedy and the sky-high ceiling that a joke can truly achieve. The trio really accentuate their unique characteristics and perspectives throughout this short piece, further demonstrating their strengthening relationships and matured views on their media and its impacts. The boys tackle the topic with a great deal of nuance, encompassing the wide array of controversy that have been at odds with Aunty Donna and the greater community around 'Pud'.
I have unfortunately deducted a star for not mentioning 'Always Room for Panettone (circa 1930)', the Italian comedy short film that would then inspire Aunty Donna's modernised vision. Whilst they have clarified this in a media statement, to explore the cultural significance of Pud without acknowledging your inspirations diminishes the importance of what Pud means to the audience.
