June Again

source: June Again

I stumbled across this movie when I flicked on Netflix one night after work and just wanted something on in the background while I caught up on social media. But within moments, the movie had me hooked and I put down the phone and settled in for what turned out to be a great movie! Something a little different from the norm, and probably one of the best Aussie movies I've seen in years, with a top group of iconic Aussie actors, who played very relatable characters. I think I could see a bit of my own family in every one of them. The plot was not glaringly predictable either.

Warning: you definitely could be crying through this movie. It is a beautiful story that is touching and highlights family changes due to illness. Loved this!

2021 has certainly seen its fair share of feature films about dementia. The brilliantly staged 'The Father', the intimately moving 'Supernova'; the yet to be released Australian movie 'Ruby's Choice' and the title reviewed here: 'June Again' starring Aussie acting legend Noni Hazelhurst. With quite the mix of tonal shifts through its duration, 'June Again' also stretches believability and does cut corners at times, but its heart is absolutely in the right place and it gives Noni her best role in decades. I gather that the Writer/Director JJ. Winlove did research into the subject matter, and a short term respite from the ravages of dementia can occur in certain cases, but as the device used here to explore family and estrangement within relationships, it felt a little at odds with the veering from gravitas to comedic sequences and be tackling dementia. 'June Again' is made most enjoyable by the leading lady and Noni Hazelhurst gives a tour de force in the title role and reaffirms why she is a national treasure. Having won a pair of AFI awards for Leading Actress in the 1980's, this film gives her the opportunity to reach into her acting toolkit and creates a wonderfully vivid and inimitable figure; one that is sure to earn the showbiz veteran another prize. Claudia Karvan and Stephen Curry give wonderful supporting turns as 'June's' offspring and both have some terrific scenes with the star as well as with one another. Notwithstanding some of my concerns about the construct of the movie, there is much to relate to in the family dynamics. Curry is especially good here. There are some brilliantly written and directed sequences that effectively convey what must be the indescribable experience of losing one's cognitive functions. Having marveled at Anthony Hopkins in 'The Father', Noni Hazelhurst also gives a master class in facial and vocal expression to depict the tyranny of dementia. For this, the movie excels. So a mixed bag for me, tonally, but there is no denying the cogency of the performances by the central trio, and the fact that the condition is so pervasive in contemporary life, stories like 'June Again' even with some credulity issues, are essential viewing.

I have not reviewed a film before, but felt so moved by June Again that I felt I had to write a few words. Noni Hazlehurst. As June is fantastic, I must look for more of her work. The whole cast were great in a well told story, please watch this, you wont regret it.

Acting and directing in Australia is in good hands as I can see with this film. The Director avoided the larrikinism that often permeates Australian movies where people find it hard to take serious matters seriously. This larrikinism is often over represented in Australian movies and doesn't always represent the way Australian families and people interact. JJ has created believable characters and directed them very professionally. It was a serious story but fun. Noni was a brilliant choice and there are few weaknesses in her fine facial expressions and movements and behaviour while afflicted by dementia. Then the transformation- and she shone in that role. We've all seen diminishing intellect in our loved ones. Stephen's Devon was captivating - he really is a great actor. And Claudia held it all together with a fine balance between optimism, desperation and just dealing with stuff. The supporting cast were well cast. Sure the story was a bit cheesy but the handling of the plot had enough twists to carry it through. I laughed at Devon's backyard with the lawn. Very clever. Only a very good team could do this -,well done.

This movie was one of the best movies I've yet seen that is so realistically and brilliantly played by this wonderful actress and a supporting cast that is a combination of what this devastating illness actually brings, sadness, heartache, comedy and memories! It did bring tears and happiness all a hodgepodge of emotions and I just relived it but this was the most poignant movie telling a story that I've ever seen. I loved "The Father," but this one be will be a classic forever! Big KUDOS to the screenwriter etc. A 10+

This is a heartwrenching portrayal of what it would be like to deal with dementia and a stroke by a family. Noni Hazlehurst was extraordinary in this and I thought Stephen Curry was fantastic as per usual. The cameo by Darren Gilshenan was a highlight. I'd watch this if you're a fan of Australian comedy. You won't be disappointed. I was welling up by the end!

Absolutely loved this movie it was such a beautiful story and each character was captured exceptionally .. though it was tinged with sadness it was also extremely funny and joyous.

As per my review title, this movie represents a 'truly' Masterful Performance by the lead actor in Noni Hazlehurst. It is an enchanting but confronting story of dementia & the fleeting period of lucidity which is experienced. Although the family found it 'challenging' to suddenly to have to deal with the sudden re-emergence of a mother (the matriarch) who they been resigned to having lost many years ago, the intriguing plot keeps the viewer 'glued' to the screen. Although this confronting story is at times sad, it also gives hope to some day medical science solving this mysterious disease of the brain. From my viewpoint this Australian movie definitely receives a 'resounding' recommendation.