A poignant and feel-good production, Sony Pictures' latest release ‘Ladies In Black’ positively delivers in style and flair.
Adapted from the very successful novel, ‘The Women In Black’ by Madeleine St John, the movie follows the lives of a group of women who work at a department store in Sydney. Shy schoolgirl Lisa (Angourie Rice) takes on a Christmas Casual position and meets many ‘ladies in black’ who imprint on her life in more ways than she realises.
Transporting audiences to 1959, the storyline touches on the rise of women’s liberation and highlights the impacts of European migration. Set to resonate largely with female audiences, the engaging and light-hearted picture is executed with precision and exemplifies the social changes occurring in Australia during this time.
With a star-studded Australian cast (including Rachael Taylor, Shane Jacobson, Ryan Corr and Noni Hazlehurst) and elegant direction by Oscar-nominated, Bruce Beresford, ‘Ladies In Black’ delivers in sentimental elegance.
Just like the book, audiences won’t help but be nostalgic while they relive this period of beautiful fashion and glamour. It’s feel-good and easy to watch, and has the ability to ignite clothing envy over the number of stunning costumes – thanks largely to Costume Designer, Wendy Cork, and Production Designer, Felicity Abbott.
Despite the movie's very relevant political undertones and jests, ‘Ladies In Black’ is witty and aims to please. It has the right amount of stereotypical representations that ensures it doesn’t cross any lines.
The talented cast bring to life the varied characters within the script. Rachael Taylor completely embodies the sophisticated and misunderstood sales assistant, Fay. Susie Porter is delightfully optimistic and appropriate as Lisa’s mother, Mrs Miles; and Alison McGirr takes us through a series of emotions as Patty Williams, as the character comes to grips with her repressive husband.
Breakout star, Angourie Rice, also proves her own talents among the established cast, with an honest and sweet portrayal of leading character, Lisa Miller.
However, stand-outs within the movie come from described ‘continentals’, Julia Ormond as Magda and Ryan Corr as Rudi. Both actors wonderfully depict the multi-cultural Australian society that we live in to this day. They were accepted delightfully by viewers, evident in the audience’s response to their comical scenes.
Overall, ‘Ladies In Black’ is pretty – from the acting and direction, to its panache and approach. The movie is completely light-hearted, marking itself as a beautiful coming-of-age adventure.
