大象传媒

Kids' dance troupes are given the mockumentary treatment in this wry observational Aussie comedy, which sees rival dance schools vie for victory at the most prestigious of all competitions, the Sanosafe Troupe Spectacular. At the heart of the story is the wacky left-wing Mr Jonathon (Miller), whose dance routines focus on promoting social awareness over glitz and glamour. His main rival is current title-holder Miss Elizabeth (Hall), a harsh taskmistress who pours scorn on his unconventional methods. But will Mr Jonathon's idealism win out and impress the judges?

Hall and Brit actor Miller are both superb, their characters' conflicting personalities coupled with some sharp one-liners serve up plenty of laugh out loud moments, not least Miller's deliciously deadpan didacticisms on 'changing the world'. But even Miller is upstaged by Kerry Armstrong's performance as competitive mum Justine, who puts her obsession with winning before her daughter's welfare. What makes Razzle Dazzle such a sure-fire success, however, is director Darren Ashton's ability to elicit great performances across the board. He's helped by a fantastic supporting cast including Denise Roberts, who excels as Mr Jonathan's loudmouth office manager, Barbara, and memorable cameos from Strictly Ballroom's Paul Mercurio and Tara Morice, the latter a mute costume designer with a penchant for all things goth.

"SPARKLES WITH WIT AND CHARM"

With the humour and poignancy of Little Miss Sunshine and the darkly comic sting of Drop Dead Gorgeous, Razzle Dazzle is a warm hearted yet meaningful affair that sparkles with wit and charm - and guarantees you'll leave the cinema with a large grin on your face. Let's hope then, that after the let-down of For Your Consideration, Christopher Guest has been taking notes...

Razzle Dazzle is out in the UK on 19th October 2007.