Having spent a few months in New Zealand, I had the chance to see Scarfies and it turned out to be a very good surprise. Many countries have bought the movie since so check it out, it could play soon at a theater near you. The characters, sharing a house in Dunedin, are what work best and succed where a film like "Shallow Grave" failed. Their development, going from pure comedy to dramatic/horrific moments doesn't come too artificially. The consequences of their discovery just make perfect sense in the way they act and in their relationships, but still manage to surprise you. And that's why you're stuck to your seat when one of the guys start to torture another one in the cave. Then the moments of fun you had half an hour before come back to memory and the movie takes another dimension: no, it's not just a farce. That's nice and neat on the surface, but pretty explosive inside. A last word to thank Mr Sarkies to have made a "non-teenage" teenage movie. He managed to avoid the trap of easy identifiyable characters as Hollywood does.
20 Reviews
GREAT FLICK!!!
DoctorSkyTower14 September 1999
Warning: Spoilers
Possible Spoilers??? I hope NOT!!!
This was a really kewl movie! I went in not expecting much, but was very impressed with the rather funny story line involving 5 students who discover loads of dope growing in the basement of a repulsive old house they shack up in, and then proceed to sell the whole lot.
I recommend this movie to all those who just love watching NZ homegrown movies about struggling university students living in Dunedin (it looked miserably cold)... One thing which struck me was with that miserable weather, how could they live in that miserably cold house??? However, it was very well portrayed. Check out the bathroom scenes!!!
I especially loved the way they head off to the rugby game yelling out "Aucklanders are W**kers!" and all the Aucklanders in the movie audience groaned out loud. Memorable Scenes: when the dope growing Crim has to go for a crap, trips up the young fella and wipes his a** on him. DIS-gusting, but funny!!!
I rate this movie 7 out of 10
This was a really kewl movie! I went in not expecting much, but was very impressed with the rather funny story line involving 5 students who discover loads of dope growing in the basement of a repulsive old house they shack up in, and then proceed to sell the whole lot.
I recommend this movie to all those who just love watching NZ homegrown movies about struggling university students living in Dunedin (it looked miserably cold)... One thing which struck me was with that miserable weather, how could they live in that miserably cold house??? However, it was very well portrayed. Check out the bathroom scenes!!!
I especially loved the way they head off to the rugby game yelling out "Aucklanders are W**kers!" and all the Aucklanders in the movie audience groaned out loud. Memorable Scenes: when the dope growing Crim has to go for a crap, trips up the young fella and wipes his a** on him. DIS-gusting, but funny!!!
I rate this movie 7 out of 10
Good movie ruined by bad ending
yojimbo99927 June 2003
SCARFIES is a good movie, with intense situations and even well thought out responses by the characters to said intense situations. Unfortunately the whole thing collapses with a 10-minute farcical ending that begs to be redone.
Also, I've read people comment that the kids were complex. Wow. Did we see the same movie? Let's see: The a$$hole guy/bad boy; the rich girl who falls for the bad boy; the sensitive guy; the weirdo kid who wants to get in the rich girl's pants; and the sensitive girl. Gee, how complex.
Nothing too great. Good, decent movie, but a really, really stupid ending that cheats. A better ending would have offered us something dark, something bloody. Instead we get an ending that "makes everything all right". I thought only Hollywood did crap like this. Apparently not.
Also, I've read people comment that the kids were complex. Wow. Did we see the same movie? Let's see: The a$$hole guy/bad boy; the rich girl who falls for the bad boy; the sensitive guy; the weirdo kid who wants to get in the rich girl's pants; and the sensitive girl. Gee, how complex.
Nothing too great. Good, decent movie, but a really, really stupid ending that cheats. A better ending would have offered us something dark, something bloody. Instead we get an ending that "makes everything all right". I thought only Hollywood did crap like this. Apparently not.
It doesn't have to be original to still be a good movie
foxmuldr-25 March 2001
Scarfies to me was a mix of Shallow Grave, Suicide Kings and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. All good movies. The story-line (5 young students find an abandoned cellar full of soft-drugs and become dope dealers for one day, but then they meet the 'real' dealer) isn't that special or really original. However, the way the story is told, the way the five act and the whole situation still makes a very good movie.
That's the power of movie making: the way you tell the story and the way you choose to let your actors act. New Zealand is producing lot's of good movies lately and this is one that you definitely want to see if you're into the black-humor thing. The twist at the end (I won't spoil it) is clever found and still leaves you with an afterthought. On a scale from 1 to 10 I would give it an 8.
That's the power of movie making: the way you tell the story and the way you choose to let your actors act. New Zealand is producing lot's of good movies lately and this is one that you definitely want to see if you're into the black-humor thing. The twist at the end (I won't spoil it) is clever found and still leaves you with an afterthought. On a scale from 1 to 10 I would give it an 8.
Good first movie
esarge6 August 1999
Provides a wonderful view of Dunedin and the student lifestyle. Dunedin is very much a University town which becomes sleepy during the breaks (I know - I used to live there) so focusing on students is great. The plot is quite good and realistic but the thriller side of the movement isn't as thrilling as it perhaps could be. The suspense isn't built high enough. However it does bring up some very interesting questions about life and being true to what you believe in.
College movie with an Edge
dfusion3 September 2001
This movie is a bit like a college flick mixed with elements of shallow grave....Both the actors and the story are interesting. I also like the way it's been cut - the story keeps moving and never realy bores....nice movie overall.
This is one of those unknown movies you rent on a gamble - most are bad and some shine - this is a definite gem.
7.4/10
This is one of those unknown movies you rent on a gamble - most are bad and some shine - this is a definite gem.
7.4/10
A promising look into what we're missing
YanTim1 May 2001
This is a pretty cool movie. It has two things going for itself - the romantic New Zealand locale and the college student characters. The movie drew me in when I accidentally started watching it - the idea of students moving into an abandoned house (the wonderful stereotype of the broke college student). I was a bit disappointed that after a while the story adopts a popular Western 90's plotline, but the movie was entertaining enough.
Sorry, Kiwis...
thies-23 April 2009
Guess what... The so called NZ Masterpiece has landed on the 2A$ table at Sam's Warehouse in Australia. Outch ! Request from "Gawkertours": Does anyone know the address of the house ? Surely, is this Dunedin reality ? A derelict place is burning electricity without anyone noticing. A town is switching to "Nuked-by-Neutron-Bomb" status, just because of a Rugby Grand Final. Squatters becoming rich from nowhere without the neighbours dobbing them in to police. Yes, Police. Apart from the Station sign not a single representation of the Force during this flick. The World ends - everybody is racing to NZ as they will not have noticed it...
Done on a relatively small budget and full of imagery and lanuage of Dunedin students living in virtual poverty; it is a witty and black comedy.
Magnus-3922 August 1999
Scarfies was a great movie from a very small film making country. Done on a relatively small budget and full of imagery and lanuage of Dunedin students living in virtual poverty; it is a witty and black comedy.
The plot centres around five students who take over an abandoned house and make it their own. They discover in the basement a huge drug planation left by the previous owner, which they decide to sell for moderate profit. Their life style improves, and relationships develop.
All goes well until the return of the drug crop's owner.
A fantastic soundtrack of New Zealand music, well worth checking out.
The plot centres around five students who take over an abandoned house and make it their own. They discover in the basement a huge drug planation left by the previous owner, which they decide to sell for moderate profit. Their life style improves, and relationships develop.
All goes well until the return of the drug crop's owner.
A fantastic soundtrack of New Zealand music, well worth checking out.
Fush an chups thunks
maxmangel9 December 2005
Imagine a friend who gives you some money to pay a bill, but the next day they demand it back again and say that you forced them into giving you the money. When you pay it back, they apologise and say they were just a bit angry about something else and didn't really need the money back actually, and later they lie about the whole incident to other people.
That is the sort of attitude the characters have in this movie. All of them appear unable make a decision without yelling, screaming and crying. The bare bones of the plot had vague potential, but they should have thrown the script back and tried again.
That is the sort of attitude the characters have in this movie. All of them appear unable make a decision without yelling, screaming and crying. The bare bones of the plot had vague potential, but they should have thrown the script back and tried again.
The best New Zealand film yet
Kiwinick8 August 1999
We seem to do brilliant "black" films. This one is no exception. A superb black comedy. The characterisation of all the players is superb... they seem real, and their actions are entirely consistent with their histories as we know them.
Often in New Zealand films, they are let down by the production values. Not so here. This film could have been produced anywhere in the world. The editing is adept and crisp, and the cinematography is supurb. Direction is equally taught. I was literally on the edge of my seat during the climax, and my heart rate was elevated for many minutes afterwards.
If this is the future of New Zealand film, then GIVE THE FILM COMMISSION MORE MONEY!!!!
Often in New Zealand films, they are let down by the production values. Not so here. This film could have been produced anywhere in the world. The editing is adept and crisp, and the cinematography is supurb. Direction is equally taught. I was literally on the edge of my seat during the climax, and my heart rate was elevated for many minutes afterwards.
If this is the future of New Zealand film, then GIVE THE FILM COMMISSION MORE MONEY!!!!
The Kiwi's Are Coming!
Dom-3712 August 1999
This film is another fine example of what New Zealand filmmakers can do when they hold the audiences' enjoyment above their own artistic w**k-ness.
The Sarkies Brothers have created an extremely (un)pleasant film that isn't really about University life at all, but about those staple cinematic conventions -paranoia, murder and er, flatting.
I strongly urge any one not from New Zealand to check out this little gem. God knows when it'll get released anywhere else though. I hope it gets onto screens in the U.S.
One quibble however, three times in the film, characters describe each other as 'jerks'. Honestly, who in New Zealand uses that word with a straight face? It's such a sitcom-ism. 'Dick' would have been much more suitable in my eyes.
The Sarkies Brothers have created an extremely (un)pleasant film that isn't really about University life at all, but about those staple cinematic conventions -paranoia, murder and er, flatting.
I strongly urge any one not from New Zealand to check out this little gem. God knows when it'll get released anywhere else though. I hope it gets onto screens in the U.S.
One quibble however, three times in the film, characters describe each other as 'jerks'. Honestly, who in New Zealand uses that word with a straight face? It's such a sitcom-ism. 'Dick' would have been much more suitable in my eyes.
Good for a laugh
lindsa15 April 2000
A uniquely New Zealand film that can be enjoyed by all. Director Robert Sarkies (who co-wrote the film with his brother Duncan) takes the audience through a cross-section of Dunedin student life. Often funny, but with solid dramatic elements (perhaps suited more to the stage), the film looks at some serious issues and then has a bit of fun with them. Shot on a shoestring budget, yet Sarkies manages to include some wicked cinematography. The frequent humour is best suited to New Zealanders, but they laughed in the right places at Cannes. Don't take it too seriously and you'll appreciate it best.
Excellent local film, superb soundtrack.
jesstherese16 February 2004
The film portrays student life in the "classic" NZ setting - Dunedin, the university city. It's pretty accurate, as far as the locations, sets and characters go. Some unpleasant moments, a good strong plot. Top bonus: brilliant soundtrack of 90s Flying Nun, good overview/introduction to catalogue. Highly recommended!
Must See!
berchtild7 July 2000
Started watching this film a little apprehensive - seemed to be much like other films made in New Zealand. Made you question what you would do in this position, a little slow to start but a very enjoyable film. Must see films for anyone who enjoys New Zealand films such as Goodbye Pork Pie and Smash Palace.
Top notch, grade A, pure class.
leeman-34 August 1999
Well, what can I say. I went to the preview hoping to see a good New Zealand film, some dark comedy and thrilling moments. Scarfies has certainly done it for me.
There is no better place to set a film about students than in the "s***hole" that was chosen. The house has a character of its own, definitely lending itself to the dark images created by the Sarkies brothers. The lines and images are stereotypical, but then, are so not, and they work I tell you.
Many a time I found myself having a great laugh - along with the rest of the audience, the s**t scene, the 'conquest', all just added to my enjoyment. The darkness, and hilarity? of this made the film all the more special.
Scarfies is a must for New Zealand film of the year, and I'm sure it will go on to bigger and better things over the bright blue ocean. If you see any film this year, see this one, it has it all, so just do it.
There is no better place to set a film about students than in the "s***hole" that was chosen. The house has a character of its own, definitely lending itself to the dark images created by the Sarkies brothers. The lines and images are stereotypical, but then, are so not, and they work I tell you.
Many a time I found myself having a great laugh - along with the rest of the audience, the s**t scene, the 'conquest', all just added to my enjoyment. The darkness, and hilarity? of this made the film all the more special.
Scarfies is a must for New Zealand film of the year, and I'm sure it will go on to bigger and better things over the bright blue ocean. If you see any film this year, see this one, it has it all, so just do it.
A clever, well-produced film worth seeing
Kiwi-726 August 1999
"Scarfies" is currently #2 at the box office in New Zealand, behind "Eyes Wide Shut". It's a clever, dark comedy/thriller that only occasionally jars. (Torture scenes make me squirm, especially if they're meant to be funny.) The film has some wonderful moments of surprise, moments of humour, moments of recognition, and, indeed, moments of horror, but the overall piece is a delight that certainly never bores. There's some good ensemble acting, too, from the young flatmates.
Although an "inexpensive" first film, it does not look cheap or amateur in any way. This film is as good as any Kiwi film in the genre, and better than the classic "Goodbye Pork Pie" in my opinion. Well done, Duncan and Robert Sarkies.
Although an "inexpensive" first film, it does not look cheap or amateur in any way. This film is as good as any Kiwi film in the genre, and better than the classic "Goodbye Pork Pie" in my opinion. Well done, Duncan and Robert Sarkies.
Wickedly cool
supereva6 November 2000
There is a certain paradox in watching New Zealand films as a New Zealander. It is a breath of fresh air to see one's own culture, surroundings and accent (!) on the big screen, and Scarfies was no exception. However what we see of ourselves is usually grim, dark, and dare I say it 'uneasy' (thanks Sam). Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoying this fantastic film. To see it in the town where it is set, in a crowd of people who the characters were modeled on was a singularly unique experience. Watching the premiere was more like being at an Otago match than inside a film theatre! The performances were all outstanding, and the plot delivered some pearlers. The scene where Charlie Bleakley scrambles around on the roof was nail-biting. The overall tone of the film captured the spirit of Dunedin... bleak, grey, yet full of spirited uni students having a ball despite the weather and financial adversity. The state of the flat was slightly exaggerated - but not by much! I found the sh*t scene a little bit Trainspotting-esque, but then I had my eyes closed for most of that part anyway. Overall, it's great to see some quality Kiwi action on the big screen.
Man i wish i could find drug's in my basement
aishia_the_slayer23 December 2003
I love this movie. It's funny and real and i'm sure most kiwi's can relate to it. The whole moving away from home to go to Uni in Otago or somewhere else. It's cleaver and I love the part when they superglue the guy's mouth and hands together and lock him in the basement is just... classic. I'm really thinking about buying it on DVD. It was on TV2 here in New Zealand on a saturday and it pulled in more viewers than most of the sunday night blockbuster movies that come from the US this year. Except I can't turn on my fellow moo-loo's OTAGO SUCKS!!! *Rings cow bell* sorry you would get it if you are a kiwi.
Don't miss it!
Olhado25 March 1999
Filed in "Tropical Dunedin" on New Zealand's South Island.
A bunch of hapless students get themselves into the mire when they appropriate a crop of "weed".
We were part of the "test audience" on a warm summer evening here in Wellington. Although the film was still in post production, it showed some brilliance in parts. Well worth a look.
A bunch of hapless students get themselves into the mire when they appropriate a crop of "weed".
We were part of the "test audience" on a warm summer evening here in Wellington. Although the film was still in post production, it showed some brilliance in parts. Well worth a look.
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