User reviews

Every now and then a movie comes up that makes you both cry and feel warm inside. This is such a movie. Sal is a young man with Down syndrome who on learning that his single mother is about to die goes on a search for his never met before father. The movie is filled with wonderful characters, many somewhat flawed but all essentially good, kind, caring human beings. Gerard O'Dwyer who plays Sal is just perfect. John Jarratt, who plays the father and is also the writer, director and co-producer of this gem has pitched it perfectly. The Sydney Australia settings are perfect for a film which will have universal appeal though probably best heard in its original Australian English version rather than dubbed into any other language as Gerard's acting must be appreciated in its full power. A cynical viewer might quibble that What about Sal is too sickly sweet and unrealistically optimistic about humanity. If you only want gun fights, car chases and nude scenes this movie is not for you. But if you want something to warm your heart while gentle tears well up then this movie delivers in spades.

Having recently seen "What About Sal," I was struck by John Jarratt's exceptional performance. While I had the privilege of meeting him in person in Bowen, it was on screen where his talent truly shone.

In his role, Jarratt displayed remarkable versatility and skill, embodying his character with authenticity and depth. His presence on screen commanded attention, drawing viewers into the story with his captivating performance.

Off-screen, Jarratt's gracious demeanor and evident passion for his craft further solidified my admiration for him as a talented actor. Meeting him in person only enhanced my appreciation for his work in "What About Sal" and beyond.

In summary, John Jarratt's contribution to "What About Sal" elevates the film to another level. His talent and dedication are evident in every scene, making his performance a highlight of this compelling movie.

I was privileged enough to watch What About Sal during a Q&A session with John and Gerard and this film absolutely did not disappoint.

The acting ability of both John and Gerard was exceptional, as well as the rest of the cast. By the end of the film I don't think there was a dry eye left in the house as everyone had formed such a bond for each of the characters. Without spoilers, there is one supporting actor is particular who's range was absolutely amazing, and I would encourage everyone to pay attention to the closing credits to be left as impressively stunned as I was.

The film is beautifully shot and showcases a lot of the hidden beauty of Sydney, Glebe and the surrounding areas. The music in the film was very catchy and well suited to each scene, and showed off John's ability to sing.

The film accurately tackled themes of alcoholism and positively highlighted the importance of organisations such as AA which I think is great given the Australian target audience and big drinking culture that exists.

I believe this is Australia's second film starring a lead actor with Down syndrome and I hope it's not the last. Gerard's acting was incredible and he was perfectly cast for the role of Sal and did an amazing job at showing the care, compassion and empathy those with Down syndrome posses.

If you have the opportunity to support this film I can guarantee you that you will not be disappointed.

Brilliant performances from the talented Gerard O'Dwyer who is outstanding and the heart of the film.

Great performances from some Australian screen legends John Jarratt, Kaarin Fairfax,Peter Hehir,Roger Ward.

Beautiful film with heart laughs and some touching moments.

John Jarratt wears many hats for this film,Actor,Writer, Director and shines in every role.

Great seeing the legend Peter Hehir back on screen one of my favourite actors. He is top notch in this film.

See it at the pictures and spread the word tell your mates this is a great movie and help support this great Australian film.

A bonzer Australian film that deserves to be seen on the big screen.

I always give Australian movies a go. This was a mess in every form of movie-making. Starting with the dubbed voices that weren't even in sync with the actors voices. Why dub when you should be able to record real-time talking!

The frequent chopping and changing from one scene to another with no flow - just chop, chop, chop. What and why? I was dizzy in the first 10 minutes.

This story had potential to be a great movie. But it failed with lighting, cinematography, poor acting (almost amateur). I will stop there because I could go on. Kudos to Gerard O'Dwyer for giving his best but John Jarrett as Director, Writer and Actor in this movie, was not a good idea. It failed.

Australian film makers can and have done better. This was not the case.

'What About Sal' is a must see!

I'm unsure how you'll see it, 'cos John Jarratt made it 100% independently. Perhaps write to him and ask.

This is a film that fearlessly and sensitively tells two uncommon stories with guts and determination ... and with marvellous Sydney locations.

A team of Australia's greats contributed excellence to bring this film together. Along with some of our best tech's behind the camera, the performances of Gerard O'Dwyer, Kaarin Fairfax, Joanne Samuel, Lewis Fitz-Gerald, Peter Hehir (whose two characters are REALLY different and REALLY good) ... and the inimitable JJ ... make the whole film not just absorbing but truly memorable.

I can't recommend this film highly enough!