Carmen & Bolude

This film was Co Written by the two main female Actors playing the roles of Carmen & Bolude respectively. Anyone will understand that when you have two writers that are also the Leads, they will often want to have an equal amount of screen time and a comparable arc that each one goes through. In my opinion this is where films like this can fall down. To the audience it can feel like there's two different films playing. However, there are some funny moments throughout.

Given the material to work with, I think Director Maria Isabel Delaossa did an amazing job and has proven herself to be fine Director of Drama and Comedy.

Can't wait to see what she does next!

Carmen & Bolude is definitely something worth watching.

The background stories are warm and heartfelt but so naturally funny that you can't help laughing out loud.

The main story line touches on so many different but fundamental emotions and gently nudges you to look at the way we all interact and how much our lives revolve around who we think we are and what we think we are.

The humor is a mix of subtlety and bluntness but is never just for the sake of a laugh, it always reminds you that these are real people not plastic characters.

Carmen & Bolude is so very different to the repetitive, cookie cutter, mainstream movies because it is a real story, all of the characters are slightly damaged and slightly off kilter but so very human.

It is an amazing movie, addressing the societal issues we face but delivering it in an easy to digest manner.

While dealing with important issues, the use of comic relief to lighten the mood is a welcome development.

The movie also made me be in all my feels as the actors made me feel what they felt. Laughing at the funny moments and crying too when the actors had to deal deep and personal issues.

I love how inclusive and intentional they were to ensure the authenticity of the characters and portrayal of the cultures represented in the movie.

It is such an entertaining and informative movie.

Carmen and Bolude is a fun movie but carries a strong message. There are engaging characters and especially strong female leads. There are lots of laugh out loud moments and some tears. All the feels in one digestible package with some lingering messages to think about.

Those lingering messages are explored around cross cultural relationships and identity in an adventure that includes New York, Sydney and some spectacular NSW sites. The "family dinner" scene is one many will relate too with a level of discomfort that is tangible, squirmy but cleverly, funny. Everyone who has ever felt unseen or not quite sure of who they were will identify.

Carmen & Bolude is a charming and thought-provoking romantic comedy that seamlessly blends humor with deep cultural insights. The film shines through its effortlessly engaging characters, led by the captivating performances of Michela Carattini and Bolude Watson, whose chemistry and comedic timing create a dynamic relationship that feels both fresh and authentic. Liam Greinke and Elliott Giarola also impress as the male leads, adding heart and charm to the story. Visually stunning, with Calum Stewart's beautiful cinematography, and enhanced by a vibrant soundtrack, the film offers an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The supporting cast is equally remarkable, with standout performances from Olivia Vasquez, Oscar Leal, Will Rodriguez, and Latin Australian reggaeton star Danny Pryp. African Australian stars, like Bolude Watson and Suzan Mutesi, bring captivating energy, while Wale Ojo delivers an unforgettable portrayal of a typical African father. A particularly poignant moment comes from the Aboriginal Aunty, whose emotional performance anchors the film in history, highlighting the lingering effects of cultural heritage, with the powerful line, "You have Aboriginal in you," reminding us of the lasting influence of ethnicity across generations.

Directed by Michela Carattini and Maria Isabel Delaossa, Carmen & Bolude is a brilliant celebration of love, culture, and identity. The film explores the fluidity of race and belonging, with a standout scene addressing the experience of Italian Australians. With extraordinary work from producer Yolandi Franken, this film blends humor, heart, and cultural depth, making it a must-watch. Don't miss the chance to experience this heartfelt and entertaining story - screenings can be found on the film's socials @carmenandbolude.