Judy & Punch

Really enjoyed this movie. Great cinematography. Acting and score were engaging. It's violent but an insightful look at existing social norms and how important it is to question and challenge them in order to break down accepted stereotypes. Interesting contrast was how on the one hand alcohol was shown as a clear link to male aggression and violence. But on the other shown as a grease for social cohesion and supportive of fun and community. Unconscious biases are under the spotlight. As is ignorance. Power to Judy. Punch continues the chauvinistic dream albeit divorced from his new reality.

A really great ride. Such a fantastically well-realised medieval style of world that really sucks you in from the beginning. That may have been the best thing for me - its style and atmosphere was really engrossing and the score and music choices really helped that. Visually the film was very striking too. The main performances were excellent - the two leads, the small girl, the old man and the constable stand out. A really unique and well-thought take on punch and judy - it was clever how all the links to the show were brought in (many of which I didn't realise at the time). There were a couple of issues - a few performances here and there I didn't like that much - but overall it was really great and I look forward to seeing it again.

It is quite a gruesome story. It is a tough watch, so be psychologically prepared for disturbing content before you watch it.

Not knowing what to expect I was absorbed right from the start. I was taken into a type of fantasy world; the colours, the people, the theatre, the atmosphere, its offbeatness. So well written, directed and acted. I found much in it an allegory with our modern world. Congratulations and highly recommended.

This is a totally quirky "re imagining" of Punch and Judy puppet shows, with Punch and Judy being a real married couple. Mia Wasikowska as the real wife, Judy, and Damon Herriman as the real husband, Punch. Judy is good and talented, Punch turns out to be mean, just like his puppet counterpart. The story is best described as a dark comedy. I found it very entertaining, my wife viewed the trailer and chose to skip it.

A really good movie for those who want something different. On DVD from our public library.