Although dark clouds loomed for most of the day, it was clear blue skies as I (and seven to eight thousand others) headed to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl for the simulcast of the 2006 Tropfest short film festival.
When I staked out a square of grass with my blanket, I arrived in time to see some of the Vox Pops conducted by the Melbourne Hosts, Hamish and Andy. Since all of the filmmakers & most of the Celebrities were at the Red Carpet at Sydney’s Domain, the boys were left with relatives of people associated with the Melbourne films. It was very much a case of pulling teeth to get interesting banter with these people, but they managed to make it somewhat entertaining. We did however get an introduction by Lord Mayor John So & could make a game of deciphering his speech.
When we crossed back to Sydney to join Adam Spencer for the start of the the films, it was apparent that it had begun raining there. This brought a huge cheer from the Melbourne crowd. After a speech by Festival Director John Polson & his introduction of the judges (including Guy Pierce, Toni Collete and Phillip Noice), the main event began.
As is the case with most short film festivals, comedy films were well represented. I’ve noticed that it must be something about the short film format that suits the comedic form. They don’t need a long time for character development and usually the first four or five minutes are spent setting up a joke with the punchline delivered at the very end. Well, that’s my theory anyway. Some highlights of the comedies were:
“Applause” by Michael Noonan
This film was based around a apathetic office worker who doesn’t actually do any work. To motivate him, his boss installs an audience in his office. Adding to this bizarre premise is the use of a foreign voice over complete with subtitles.
“How many doctors does it take to change a lightbulb?” by Marie Patane
When Rosie was at the Doctor’s for a Pap Smear, her visit goes from bad to worse. I personally thought that it was just a one joke film, but it was handled well. I’m sure it was especially cringe worthy for the ladies in the audience.
“Silencer” by Frazer Bailey
A tale of two gang members that are about to take each other out, but their inner thoughts get in the way. The concept of using “Thought Bubbles” was hilarious and also fulfilled the inclusion of the signature item (bubbles).
“Tough Crowd” by Patrick Gillies
Performing to a crowd of one (a little girl, played by a man complete with moustache), a Mime attempts to impress. He is met with hostility and numerous obscene gestures. Fortunately (or not, depending on your opinion of Mimes) the Mime gets his revenge. The same actor plays both parts, providing further amusement.
“Carmichael and Shane” by Alex Weinress.
Filmed in a mockumentary style, a single father shares his unique strategy of raising twin boys, favoritism. It was slightly disturbing that the roles were played by an actual father and his sons.
“The Sister” by Belinda King
Amelia stands up to her condescending sister in a creative way using cake. The dedication to the Director’s sister after the credits was gold.
“Snakepit” by Janos Zuzmara
While not a comedy (Janos demands that it be classified as a ‘Horror’), this film was a documentary about snake handler Frederico Rossignoli. The humour of the film lay in Janos’ hysterical reactions whilst filming the snakes.
At the conclusion of the screening, Hamish and Andy appeared on stage to relay some news. Three films from the end, everyone in Sydney was sent home due to torrential rain. So the evening ended with several minutes of the boys bagging Sydney for their lousy weather.
From the comfort of their hotel rooms, the Judges finished viewing the films & declared that the winner was “Carmichael and Shane”. The best comedy was awarded to “How Many Doctors Does it Take to Change a Lightbulb?”. The Best Male Actor gong was given to Rob Carlton who appeared in both “Carmichael and Shane” and “How Many Doctors…”, while the Best Female Actor was given to Belinda King for her performance in “The Sister”.
So, what some Raw Comedy MC’s say is true. Comedy was the winner on this occasion!
A DVD of the 16 Tropfest finalists was available with Saturday’s (March 4th) Age. The films have also been screened on Foxtel, with future encores.