NZ Film is really coming of age. We’ve had some remarkable examples, Sione’s Wedding, The Piano, Whale Rider, Eagle vs Shark and now Secondhand Wedding.
I love the honesty of this film. It depicts typical NZ streets, suburbs and characters. Geraldine Brophy has always been one of NZ’s most likable actress. Here she plays a well-meaning Mum who is a Garage Sell junkie. It’s so delightful, you even convince yourself ‘maybe you wouldn’t mind going to a few yourself’! Geraldine’s character ‘Jill’ is well supported by her husband Brian (Patrick Wilson) and Cheryl her daughter played by Outrageous Fortune’s Holly Shanahan.
The plot is simple, a daughter is reluctant in telling her mum of her engagement as she is afraid that the wedding will turn into a jumble sale. The rest is predictable comedy,but delightful all the same. Highlights of the film include the ‘garage sign’ robber and the consistent references to popular 60’s NZ music icon John Rowles.
Steph’s rating: 7.5/10
