8/10
Irreverent, but relevant.
19 November 2001
This is a mischievous comedy that pulls no punches in its criticism of the media,insurance companies and the religious fraternity. Some might construe it as blasphemous. The phrase "Act of God" universally used in insurance policies gets a severe thrashing in the film and in the process leaves one doubled up in uncontrollable laughter. It's a real winner...a film guaranteed to send you home with a smile on your face. Steve (Billy Connolly)is seeking replacement of his fishing boat which has been destroyed in an unexpected lightning storm, but his insurance company refuses to pay a cent on the grounds that the catastrophe was an "Act of God". Not satisfied with this decision Steve recruits family, friends and action groups to back him up in a court of law. The storms at the beginning and end of the film are something to behold. The cinemaphotography throughout is praiseworthy and the shots of the Australian coastline warrants special mention. The plot may not be quite believable, but it is original and makes for a good story. The church interiors are serene and inspiring, and there are other quiet and tender moments as well, but on the whole the action rattles along at a rollicking good pace. Billy Connolly obviously relishes the part of the boisterous fisherman as he strives onward in a kind of David and Goliath battle. In short he is well cast. When the going gets really tough, Steve consults his dog Arthur who stands by his master through thick and thin. There is an amazing climax in the final court scene which ensures that everyone leaves the theatre with a good feeling deep down inside.
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