Chase_Witherspoon If you like Mick Molloy, find his brand of humour amusing or can take the pace (lack thereof) of a suburban David & Goliath story, then this might add up to an entertaining afternoon. Molloy is a foul-mouthed (is he ever anything else?) corporate type whose coveted car park is placed in jeopardy unless he joins the local bowls club. Becoming a member for the sole purpose of retaining his car space soon morphs into a dedicated quest to keep the club's doors open in the face of an ensuing re-development. Turns out that Molloy is as adept at jack-high as he is at bending the elbow whilst puffing darbs with the old and bolds of the conservative, ageing club.Likable idea (retaining the values of loyalty, social inclusion and community benevolence versus the anonymity and greed of corporations), realistic sets, familiar location work in Melbourne - just one aspect disappointed and that was Molloy's characterisation. I used to find his gags amusing on "The Late Show" where he was part of a talented and diverse ensemble, but on his own, his recycled jokes seem crass and mostly misfire (in my opinion).The now late Bill Hunter plays a stereotypical role as the club's determined patron and fellow comedienne and frequent Molloy collaborator Judith Lucy also appears in a prominent supporting role. If you've seen "The Castle", then the story will be familiar in both concept and the unique Australian tone, otherwise, it's not unlike "Mighty Ducks" in its sporting context. Unfortunately however, the jokes miss their target on most occasions and the end result was, for me, unsatisfying.

faded23 I watched this film expecting an 'OK' Aussie comedy about a bowling club. That is exactly what it is. The film is filled with many laughable moments and interesting characters. The music is also catchy and there is clean cinematography. However, the plot is too predictable and the dialogue is very unpolished.Most of the acting is appalling and not convincing - especially by lead character Mick Molloy (playing Jack Simpson). This, in combination with bad dialogue, ruins the most of the movie. I felt myself cringing at too many lines that were poorly executed. Like Mick Molly, Monica Maughan (Eileen) and Samuel Johnson's (Dave Jackson) characters were also more irritating than entertaining. John Clarke (Bernie Fowler) made an excellent performance, and in my opinion, saved the film.Overall, this film is still worth a rental as it delivers many laughs. However, it could have been a lot better if more attention was paid to dialogue and acting.Rating: 5/10

The-Gent I was very impressed with the latest production from Mick Molloy. As a fan of his, I was used to a different kind of humour than displayed here. He wisely opted with a more subtle, broad style of comedy in Crackerjack, rather than his usual low brow, in-your-face ramblings. It is, at times, inconsistent and un-even, but a decent script works past that, and makes for some entertaining viewing. Directed by Paul Moloney (who has directed almost every Australian TV series imaginable), Crackerjack tells the story of Jack Simpson, a bloke that belongs to his local bowls club for the sole reason of parking. When the club hits financial trouble, he is forced to bowl competitively in an attempt to raise the funds to save the club from becoming a poker machine haven. A familiar, and successful formula, that is handled well. There is no denying that the film owes it's success to the great casting of Molloy. He seemed to have a great rapport with Samuel Johnson, and excellent chemistry with Judith Lucy, and while the character is probably not a far stretch from his own personality, you can't help but wonder why he hadn't tried his arm at film earlier. To smooth out the in-experienced cast, the delightful Frank Wilson and Bill Hunter support, and often steal their scenes. They are two fine actors and the pair cruise through their roles with ease. Had it not been for the huge success of 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding', Crackerjack would have made it to number 1 at the Australian box office, but when you consider what he film is about and who is involved, even making it to number 2 was an outstanding effort. All in all, a witty, feel-good movie. Great cast, great crew, and a great soundtrack, combine to make one of the better Australian films of 2002. 7/10.

scotti2hotti When I saw the trailer for Crackerjack, I thought this film was going to be an absolute shocker. How wrong was I? This is such an exquisite piece of Australiana. It's as if a time capsule was dug up from a bygone era and inside was this film. The true stars of Crackerjack are not Mick Malloy or Judith Lucy but a cavalcade of veteran Australian actors, brought back to cinematic life. A bit like Wim Wenders bringing back to life the ageing musicians of the Buena Vista Social Club. Where the comedy of 'The Nugget' failed to deliver, 'Crackerjack' more than succeeds. "Can I fix you a Radox bath champ?" This is just one dialogue related example of how engagingly Australian this film is. And you have to love the modern technology that is 'Bowl-cam'. The sound of the ball cutting through the manicured lawn and the camera following every movement of the ball is truly hypnotic.'Crackerjack' is not aimed at mocking the ways of the elderly. Lawn bowls is more than sport. It's about friendships, a sense of community and values that now have probably escaped modern day society. It's also about tomato sandwiches, beer at genuine 1976 prices and helping yourself to the wheel of cheese! 'Crackerjack' takes aim at big business, which is squeezing out smaller clubs with the introduction of poker machines and the social and financial impact it's having on the elderly. There are so many things to be gained from seeing this film. Jack highly recommended!