The story of “The Sapphires” is simultaneously comedic, dramatic, historic, romantic, and (of course) musical.
Our story begins in 1958, in the midst of a racially divided Australia. We meet the Sapphires as children. They’re native Australians, called “Aborigines” by British settlers, and incredibly talented.
Flash forward a decade and sisters Gail (Deborah Mailman), Julie (Jessica Mauboy), and Cynthia (Miranda Tapsell) are still singing together. Although, much to Julie’s disapproval, Gail and Cynthia are about to enter a contest without her. She’s too young according to the entry rules, but that doesn’t stop her from crashing the performance.
It’s here they meet Dave (Chris O’Dowd) their soon to be manager, and we first see the division in this community. They are the only non-white performers, and the most talented by far. Still, the top prize goes to a tone-deaf blonde.
The goofy, drunken, but seemingly well-meaning Dave sees the incredible talent of these girls, and through a series of events (mostly slyly orchestrated by Julie) gets them an audition to perform for GI’s in Vietnam.
After a complete makeover from country to Motown, and a tense reunion with their cousin and former fourth member Kay (Shari Sebbens), the Sapphires are born and on their way to Saigon.
War, prejudice, and the soul of Motown are at the heart of this inspiring and true story. But it’s the joy that embodies every moment that made me love this movie. Add Motown classics like ”I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)”, and “I’ll Take You There” and I dare you not to love this movie too.
Right now, this movie is in limited release, so there’s a good chance many readers won’t have access to it just yet. If you do have the chance, see it.
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