The crime/comedy film that will have you on the edge of your seat.
There are many iconic films that easily take your breath away. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush with the story telling, or the perfect cast… even a killer soundtrack. The 1999 film Two Hands should be in your collection right now. The comedy / crime drama tells the story of Strip Club Bouncer Jimmy (Ledger) recruited by crime boss Pando (Bryan Brown) to do a simple job – deliver $10,000 cash to someone’s home, pure and simple. But on a stinkin’ hot Sydney summer’s day, the receiver is not contactable, so he hits the beach until he works out what to do. Unknown to him, two street kids have been watching his every move on the beach and steal the money. From there, all hell breaks loose, and unintentionally drags his housemate’s sister and new love interest Alex (Rose Byrne) with him while trying to make amends for the $10 grand. All while his older dead brother Michael acts as his guardian angel.
If that doesn’t sell it, let me give you reasons:
- It was Heath Ledger‘s first major Australian film as the main star.
Heath Ledger already had a few notches under his belt when it came to TV, as well as starring in the 1997 film Paws, and the U.S. film 10 Things I Hate About You early 1999, but Two Hands was is big Australian screen debut where he was up front and centre. It was filmed in 1998, but not released until after 10 Things.
- An all-star cast.
Where do I start? Veteran actor Bryan Brown who was already well established, Rose Byrne who was starting to make the big time, David Field, Tom Long, Susie Porter… the list goes on.
- Gregor Jordan‘s first film as Director.
Jordan wrote and directed this film, which made him a household name. He eventually teamed up with Ledger again for 2003’s Ned Kelly.
- Award winning.
Two Hands won 5 AFI awards – Best Film, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing. As well as winning numerous others.
- Killer soundtrack.
At the start of the film, Brisbane band Powderfinger blast on with the opening credits with their track Belter lifted from the 1998 album Internationalist. It’s a rush. Other bands included landmark artists of the 1990s, including Primary, Kate Ceberano, Alex Lloyd, Crowded House and Skunkhour.
- Sydney life in the 1990s.
The Monorail is gone. Kings Cross is still sleazy and odd – but under a different light, and some pubs and shops no longer exist. But the film shows the life of Sydney suburbia in the 1990s, and sold Bondi Beach to the world. Just don’t leave money buried in the sand.
- The Bank Robbing scene.
Spoiler Alert – one of the most funniest crime scenes ever.
- The $100 note
And the ongoing adventures of this bank note.
Purchase Two Hands from:
I give this film 4 & 1/2 Molly Meldrums.
