Amore ribelle

Christina (Karvan) is a 22 year old high school teacher, engaged to the stable, and arguably boring, Dimitri (Bistoni).

Her choices are stark: conventional Greek Orthodox wedding followed by stable, predictable family life in suburban Melbourne, and just across the road from mum and dad!

Or... Throwing her career, reputation and parents into the toilet to further enjoy the sugar-hit of a 17 year-old student (Nick, played by Alex Dimitriades) she teaches.

She is aided in her decision by Evdokia (Doris Younane) who instills a palpable sense of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) when she declares of a possible tryst with Nick -- "If you don't, I will!".

And so, herein lies the nub of the conflict: that of a first-generation Australian of Greek background and the inherent conservatism the Church fosters, and the lure of self-gratification that's less of a hang-up for the majority of Australians.

Whatever will she do? I didn't much care, not for lack of acting talent from the leads or supporting cast -- all great. Rather, it was the improbability of where it was all heading, and indeed where it ended up. I can't recall a real-life student/teacher scenario where events didn't end badly in some fashion.

Still, the heart wants what it wants. If you're willing to place romance above all else (good sense and logic among them) then fill your boots.

What did I like most about it?

Cars from the 70s, 80s and early 90s abound. Christina drives a Ford KH Laser and Dimitri a BMW 5 series.

I saw this film a few days ago by accident on late night TV. As it was starting it looked kind of dated and I thought it was a 50's film of some sort. But then i saw the Greek family and as i'm from a Greek background i thought it was gonna be an interesting watch.

Then after I saw about 15 minutes i knew it was based on the TV series "Heartbreak High" or should i say the series was based on the film. I never knew this film existed or that the series was based on such a film so it was a bit of shock.

It's an interesting fictional film that takes place in the Greek community in Australia. However, it felt a bit corny in places only because it was made 10 years ago and it's really dated.

Very limited in what I can say but Claudia Kavan is a Knockout in this one, intelligence, beauty, poise, you name it, frankly exudes challenge and sexuality. Alex Dimitriades terrific too, both immersed themselves in their respective characters. The film is Erotic, very Erotic, but not Pornographic. Maybe best to try for a DVD which hopefully will contain the Director's Cut as Edited and approved by The Federal Censor, some evidence that the Television Stations are diluting and destroying the continuity of Erotic Scenes between Kavan and Dimitriades. All the support cast tops in this one, with Direction and Script First-Class. A thought provoking, memorable film, with some great lines if you concentrate and some lessons too.

While it is not a masterpiece it succeed in arousing the viewers passion and sympathy. The story maybe used before, but the script and acting give it a fresher look. Of course the two lovers act beautifully ( In bed and Out of it). And they look beautifull.

Interesting attempt. One may think that it is very predictable and one may be right thinking so... I said 'maybe'. Some of it is predictable and perhaps unthinkable, especiality if you consider this is depicted in Melbourne but mostly among a Greek community. These kind of situations had been real events and one wonders what direction it will go or end in. I found it pleasing the way it was handled with no melodramatic add on. So what you may have predict, may not happen. This is worth noting as this story follows a course that some may not agree with whilst in today's environment it may not be so out of reality. Perhaps forgetable but still quite entertaining and somehow thought provoking.