Danny Deckchair

Sitting down to watch this film, I didn't have incredibly high expectations but after watching it, I must say I was pleasantly surprised. It will not go down as a classic piece of film, but it was an enjoyable use of 90 minutes and I am pleased that I viewed it. The plot line is relatively simple, which arguably detracts from the film, but it has it's moments, such as the moment Danny launches into the air on his deckchair. This film is more likely to appeal to an Australian audience as they will be able to relate to more of the items featured (eg: AFL football), but this still has enough in it to appeal to those not familiar with Australian culture. Overall, I would recommend this Aussie film to all people looking for a good laugh. Enjoyable!

When I walked into the theatre, it was spotted with very few people wanting to see the film, and most had just walked in because of the interesting title, but everyone left the theatre laughing and joking with one another. I have never seen a movie which inspired me to smile so much, and feel so good afterward. The scenery was amazing, the story was innovative, and Rhys Ifans was an extremely lovable character. All in all, a very good film, and definitely worth seeing. Danny's character was very charismatic, and his views on life can relate to everyone who has just wanted to get away. I especially liked the way he interacted with his friends and the people around him. By the end of the film, you really feel like you have a new friend in a strange way. Anyways, I would describe this as a Notting Hill/Bridget Jones/ Muriel's Wedding combination, with a little Whale Rider for spice. It gives new hope to the Australian film making industry.

I've read several other user's comments on this movie. Many were right, it IS simple romantic comedy movie. And, yes, this story has been well covered. That doesn't make it any less of a movie. Neither does having Rhys Ifans play an Australian. It's called ACTING! Tom Hanks didn't contract AIDS to play in Philadelphia. Meryl Streep played Australian in A Cry in the Dark. And Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe, both Aussies, have played American! Rhys played the role of Danny perfectly. He showed a regular guy who wants to do SOMETHING. Miranda Otto was also well cast at Glenda, living a life on hold as a parking cop. This movie doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it is a great way to spend a couple of hours. I recommend it highly. 8/10

"Danny Deckchair" tells of the adventures of a young concrete truck driver who decides to tie a bunch of helium filled balloons to his deck chair to soar aloft. His plan is to take shears with him to cut away one balloon at a time thereby making his descent. Instead, he leaves the shears behind and the balloons carry him to a new life and a new love. This sweet, cute, fun little flick from down-under is a fresh and creative new addition to the much over worked romcom genre. With lots of heart and unpredictable predictability, "Danny Deckchair" should be an enjoyable watch for those who don't mind a little schmaltz with their romantic comedy fare. (B)

Greetings again from the darkness. In this charming little comedy from down under, Writer/Director Jeff Balsmeyer takes us inside the lives of 2 people we really like and one ... well maybe not so much. The 3 lead actors are excellent in their roles, especially Rhys Ifan (Notting Hill and Once Upon a Time in the Midlands). Miranda Otto plays the parking cop who brings him back to life, while Justine Clark is tremendous as the glory seeking user that we have all met at least once. The story, while getting started in a very unique manner, settles into a traditional little romantic comedy for awhile. What makes this one a little different is watching the changes in the faces of the three leads. They each experience joy and heartbreak in their own way. This one deserves a look.