Backyard Ashes

Really, a 5 1/2, (hence, my summary title) but that wasn't an option. I was a bit bored at first, but it was a rainy, lazy Sunday, so I kicked back and sat through it--and you know what? As it went on, it grew on me. I don't watch cricket, nor do I understand the rules, but it doesn't take an aficionado, or a genius to figure out that backyard cricket is a pastime over in Australia. In a way, this movie is an ode to the love of the game, family, and friends.

You won't get big laughs out of this one (at least it didn't happen for me, and I suspect it won't happen for most), but you will find yourself smiling, and that smile will remain for awhile after the movie ends.

Another thing about this low budget little movie is that it is clean, good fun (except for a bit of swearing, but nothing to write home about). It's something the whole family can enjoy, or an alternative if you just need a break from the raunchy stuff. Not every comedy has to be full of cursing, douche-bags, and tits--something Hollywood seems to have forgotten.

This is a cute, feel-good movie about the possibility of making friends, even with your enemies, that puts some faith back in humanity. Yes, there were clichés, and it was a bit cheesy, but c'mon, admit it: sometimes you're in the mood for a nice little chunk of cheese. With a few crackers on the side. And a beer.

If you've got nothing to do on a rainy evening, kick back with the family, pass the cheese and crackers, crack open that beer, and give it a shot. You might be surprised.

It was an excellent movie. Short summery a 'whinging pommie' and a 'dinkum Aussie' sort the differences in backyard cricket. The movie itself was a good small budget comedy that unlike others really delivers not only a good laugh but conveys a message about how a person who you don't like can become a friend. The whole setting is a typical Aussie setup none other than backyard cricket. They have nicknames based on popular cricketers such as Dougie waters 'Dougie Walters' and 'pidge 'pigeon aka Glenn McGrath' the whole movie is basically dedicated to the Aussie bloke who loves playing or have played backyard cricket with mates. A must see for a comedy fan!!!

Overall 10/10 A good laugh and a great small budget film!

A mate in Australia recommended this movie to me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's light-hearted and silly and packed with loads of subtle cricket references (Jardine, Dexter, Harlequin caps, impersonations of famous commentators etc.) which keeps the narrative moving along at a very predictable but steady pace. The story is a bit weak but it's never less than highly entertaining. At times, the stereotypes are a little obvious but remember folks that this is a COMEDY. It's meant to be funny and in the manner of the typical Australian cinematic style (and its refreshing non-conformity to a PC strait-jacket), it entertains without offending.

This very funny backyard movie is a revelation in home grown film making. A National past time in Australia is Backyard Cricket. Also, Internationally each year teams play in huge stadiums and it is all televised daily across Summer. For anyone who does not know Cricket, especially in the USA, this film won't play well. But for British and probably Indian / Pakistani families, this film will be a scream Here is a film that combines working class comedy and family with sharp satire and a lot of Aussie suburban sports slang most successfully. Imagine THE FULL MONTY mixed with THE CASTLE and KENNY and played in a backyard during a game of Neighbour/Employer cricket. I personally do not like cricket and could not care less about it on TV and in matches that go for days. However, this hilarious 85 minute micro movie transcends all barriers just by being funny and good natured. A strong silly script, ripe performances and sunny satire, nice kids and surprising digital sharp picture and sound, BACKYARD ASHES is a school holiday movie delight and easy to have the family laughing out loud. A big hit in regional cinemas, suburban audiences will also lap it up if given the chance.

Backyard Ashes looks like a low budget movie with a big budget relation to real life. Being an Indian and playing cricket with friends and family, I can truly relate to this movie. This was my 1st Australian movie that I have watched and I must admit it hit the right cords. Big budget movies generally focus more on the big names but this focused on everyone in the movie. It was a simple yet very honest movie. Loved ones getting together, playing a good game of cricket, the annoying and unfriendly neighbors, the old couple upstairs, the entire locality and the craziness that comes along. Its a good watch for a nice lazy afternoon....