The Breaker Upperers
Jackie van Beek (What We Do in the Shadows) and Madeleine Sami (Sione's Wedding) are two romance cynics running a business breaking up unhappy couples in this New Zealand buddy comedy. Written and directed by van Beek and Sami, the film also features James Rolleston (Boy), Australian comedian Celia Pacquola (TV's Rosehaven), Rima Te Wiata (Housebound) and Cohen Holloway (Hunt for the Wilderpeople).
- Director:
- Madeleine Sami (feature debut)Jackie van Beek ('The Inland Road')
- Writer:
- Madeleine SamiJackie van Beek
- Cast:
- Madeleine SamiJackie van BeekJames RollestonCelia PacquolaRima Te WiataCohen Holloway
Reviews & comments
Flicks, Katie Parker
flicksWhen The Breaker Upperers debuted at Austin’s South by Southwest film festival in March of this year, it was to the kind of uproarious international delight that Kiwi culture so fitfully feeds on - so much so that Variety described writer-director-stars Jackie van Beek and Madeleine Sami “a female version of Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement”.
Uhhhh!!!!
Okay, first I don't want to say anything bad about a kiwi film thats just trashy and no good thing to do. BUT...I must say it wasn't for me, there were moments when I felt.. Yes! *fist pumping good* but mostly I was just not that impressed with it. Its crass and as a whole i'm not usually that offended but for me it cheapened the film somehow I was somehow...
Of course it’s offensive and funny
Of course some people find this offensive, too much and it is. AND its very funny and fun. Cringeworthy at times but clever, out there and caring. The two ladies laid it on the line and most of the time it rocks. The portrayal of the rugby dude and his fierce girl and her crew is new nealand classic! If you are easily offended give it a miss if you want a...
Very disappointing.
The trailer looked funny, but the film rarely is. It seems like NZ reviewers feel like it's their patriotic duty to talk up NZ films, which isn't always justified. The film makes women, the lesbian character and the police look like creeps (which we don't need in this age of sexual harassment). "Flat" and/or obvious acting and writing. Too much...
erm.
It was funny in some bits but it was soooo cringe!! I felt like it would have been better with younger women as the main actors. Some of the comments in the film were like taking NZ sayings and making them lame as hell. felt like i should have watched it at home and not paid money to go watch it in the movies.
Variety
pressA terrific showcase for the duo and their entire cast, which, besides a pop-up bit from Clement, is curated from a local talent pool that Hollywood has yet to spelunk. After this, it should.
The Guardian
pressThe film coasts off the energy and rapport of this affable pair, whose smart-mouthed performances are full of pep and fizz.
The Australian
pressIt's a small film, but - despite the dubious premise - a frequently hilarious one.
Stuff
pressI think The Breaker Upperers is the funniest and most likeable film I've seen this year. Go see it.
Stuff
pressWhat sets The Breaker Upperers apart is the simple way they have flipped the classic, but let's be honest, tired, "buddy comedy" on its head.
New Zealand Herald
pressLaugh-out-loud funny and at times wonderfully subtle, this ever-so-likable romp confirms something many already knew, Van Beek and Sami can do almost anything.
New Zealand Listener
pressAn original, inventive, hilarious film, one that sure leaves you wanting more from the Sami-van Beek double act.
Flicks, Katie Parker
flicksWhen The Breaker Upperers debuted at Austin’s South by Southwest film festival in March of this year, it was to the kind of uproarious international delight that Kiwi culture so fitfully feeds on - so much so that Variety described writer-director-stars Jackie van Beek and Madeleine Sami “a female version of Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement”.
Variety
pressA terrific showcase for the duo and their entire cast, which, besides a pop-up bit from Clement, is curated from a local talent pool that Hollywood has yet to spelunk. After this, it should.
The Guardian
pressThe film coasts off the energy and rapport of this affable pair, whose smart-mouthed performances are full of pep and fizz.
The Australian
pressIt's a small film, but - despite the dubious premise - a frequently hilarious one.
Stuff
pressI think The Breaker Upperers is the funniest and most likeable film I've seen this year. Go see it.
Stuff
pressWhat sets The Breaker Upperers apart is the simple way they have flipped the classic, but let's be honest, tired, "buddy comedy" on its head.
New Zealand Herald
pressLaugh-out-loud funny and at times wonderfully subtle, this ever-so-likable romp confirms something many already knew, Van Beek and Sami can do almost anything.
New Zealand Listener
pressAn original, inventive, hilarious film, one that sure leaves you wanting more from the Sami-van Beek double act.
Uhhhh!!!!
Okay, first I don't want to say anything bad about a kiwi film thats just trashy and no good thing to do. BUT...I must say it wasn't for me, there were moments when I felt.. Yes! *fist pumping good* but mostly I was just not that impressed with it. Its crass and as a whole i'm not usually that offended but for me it cheapened the film somehow I was...
Of course it’s offensive and funny
Of course some people find this offensive, too much and it is. AND its very funny and fun. Cringeworthy at times but clever, out there and caring. The two ladies laid it on the line and most of the time it rocks. The portrayal of the rugby dude and his fierce girl and her crew is new nealand classic! If you are easily offended give it a miss if you want...
Very disappointing.
The trailer looked funny, but the film rarely is. It seems like NZ reviewers feel like it's their patriotic duty to talk up NZ films, which isn't always justified. The film makes women, the lesbian character and the police look like creeps (which we don't need in this age of sexual harassment). "Flat" and/or obvious acting and writing. Too much...
erm.
It was funny in some bits but it was soooo cringe!! I felt like it would have been better with younger women as the main actors. Some of the comments in the film were like taking NZ sayings and making them lame as hell. felt like i should have watched it at home and not paid money to go watch it in the movies.
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