Hartley

When i sat down to watch this film i thought that it would be another story about a kids infatuation with an older person, and it would go nowhere. But i was very supprised and pleased that it had some depth to it. Nick falls in love with his teacher and at first she doesnt want to know, as she is engaged and is planning a big wedding. Nick persists and she finally gives in. I dont want to give too much away about the film, but if your looking for a film about very strong relationships, then definatly see this one.

I have recently seen this film and I thought I just had to write about it. What I liked about it was the truth in it, the innocent love and to have strength to do something like "papa" and "Nick" did. Another great thing about it is the end, through the whole film I thought to myself; ohh this is going to end like that, but when the movie was over it had surprised me, because it was nothing like I thought it would end, only much better. Without telling to much, go see the movie, it will surprise you.

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.

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.

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.