Seriously Red (2022) User Reviews

Quite a surprise...

[paul_haakonsen · 6/10 · 28 April 2023]

When I sat down to watch the 2022 movie "Seriously Red", I must admit that I wasn't really harboring much of any expectations really. Why? Well, I mean a movie about a Dolly Parton impersonator, how much contents could there possibly be to that?

But I opted to watch the movie, giving the movie a fair chance and the benefit of the doubt. And I am actually glad that I did, because writer Krew Boylan and director Gracie Otto put together a very enjoyable and entertaining movie here.

The storyline is nicely written by Krew Boylan, whom also coincidentally starred as Red, and it is a storyline that takes the audience by the hand and gives you a heartfelt experience that is guaranteed to put a smile on your lips. I was genuinely surprised with the story here, and I have to say that it was good entertainment from start to end.

I wasn't familiar with the cast ensemble in the movie, except for actor Bobby Cannavale, but they had a great cast and the actors and actresses put on good performances to bring the movie to life on the screen. Leading actress Krew Boylan really carried this movie phenomenally well with her performance.

"Seriously Red" is a movie that is well worth watching and sitting down to spend 104 minutes upon.

My rating of "Seriously Red" lands on a six out of ten stars.

Worth a watch even if you're not into Dolly.

[deloudelouvain · 6/10 · 10 March 2023]

I don't like movies were they sing all the time, I hate karaoke so impersonators are not on my favourite list either and I don't particularly like music from Dolly Parton even though I know some of her famous songs like anyone else I guess, and even for a comedy I didn't laugh much but I still was entertained by Seriously Red. More as drama with a lot of singing and performing, but not cringing to watch. The impersonator of Kenny Rodgers was the funniest character of the bunch. His duets with Dolly Parton were worth a watch. The acting was the good thing about this movie, no one terribly failed even not with the impersonations. Just don't expect an hilarious comedy.

searching for herself

[ferguson-6 · 7/10 · 19 March 2022]

SXSW 2022 Greetings again from the darkness. Finding one's self can be a long and arduous life journey for some. Along the way, they may be influenced by parents, friends, co-workers, and even public figures. This phenomenon is explored by director Gracie Otto (sister of Miranda) with a terrific script from lead actor Krew Boylan. It's a film that starts out light-hearted and comical and evolves into something much deeper ... self-actualization.

I'll admit two things: I was not previously familiar with Krew Boylan and I was truly blown away by her performance here. She stars as Raylene, also known as the titular "Red" thanks to the ginger mop of hair on her head. She's fixated on Dolly Parton to the point of going to the company banquet dressed as Dolly (either a prank or misunderstanding). Red has struggled to find her way in life, and is fired from her realtor job the day after the banquet due to her drunken improprieties. This is a grown woman living in her mom's garage, and coincidences being as they are, a talent scout for a celebrity impersonation troupe offers Red the opportunity to audition as their Dolly.

We watch as she improves her act ... going from a tolerable karaoke singer to actually impersonating Dolly's singing voice, not just the big wig, heavy make-up, and frilly costumes (shout out to costume designer Tim Chappel). She becomes part of the Kenny Rogers impersonator's act, and the two begin an off-stage relationship as well. Red finds that she enjoys the adulation and respect, and even goes so far to have implants for authenticity. Of course, we see what's happening before Red does. In her search to find herself, she's disappeared into the act of being someone else. Her lifelong friend asks her, "If you are busy being someone else, who is busy being you?". Behold the identity crisis.

Exceptional work is provided by the supporting cast. That lifelong friend just mentioned is Francis, played by Thomas Campbell. We make assumptions about Francis based on the early scenes, and those assumptions later teach us a lesson. Red has a strained relationship with her mother played by Jean Kittson, who like every parent, wants happiness and reality for their offspring. Celeste Barber plays the talent scout who discovers Red, and Bobby Cannavale plays the manager of the traveling cast of impersonators (and serves up a nifty Neil Diamond impersonation himself). An unrecognizable Rose Byrne is a hoot as Elvis, and Daniel Webber is a standout as Kenny - the love interest and Kenny Rogers impersonator. Also fun to watch are the impersonators who play such icons as Marilyn, Streisand, Liz, Liza, etc.

Director Otto opens with a terrific and unconventional shot of Red in the bathtub while on a client call. It's the perfect introduction to a character and story that leads us down many paths. We often hear that celebrities and public figures don't consider themselves role models, but it's indisputable that they have influence on many. Dolly Parton is a charming and talented and successful woman, and many of her insightful quotes are utilized here to inspire Red. But while icons may inspire some, it becomes clear that we all need the love and support of family and/or friends to discover our true self. This is a full Australian production, with the exception of Mr. Cannavale, who is an honorary Aussie due to his marriage to Rose Byrne. It's a story with heart and makes for an entertaining watch.

Dolly Parton's boobs

[SnoopyStyle · 6/10 · 1 July 2023]

Dolly Parton fanatic Red (Krew Boylan) can't keep a job and rents the converted garage from her disapproving mother. At the company party, she mistakenly dresses as Dolly Parton. There is a Elvis impersonator (Rose Byrne) and booker Teeth. Red gets fired and signs with impersonator company owner Wilson (Bobby Cannavale). She is paired with Kenny Rogers impersonator (Daniel Webber).

It's an interesting world and there is a funnier comedy somewhere in here. I like the themes and all the big ideas. There is stuff that doesn't make sense. It's also a bit disconnected. It builds up Elvis, but doesn't do more with that character. I assumed Francis to be gay and that threw me off. A lot of little things threw me off in this one. I still like Red a lot despite her bumpy journey.

It will end well if it kills me.

[nogodnomasters · 6/10 · 26 January 2023]

Raylene (Krew Boylan) works as an appraiser for real estate loans in Australia. On the office party night she wins an award for the office clown. She does a Dolly Parton impersonation, who she has idolized all her life. She is seen by a Impostor agency and is asked to try out. Her mother (Jean Kittson) does not approve. Raylene managers to team up a Kenny Rogers impersonator (Daniel Webber) who never gets out of character and never whats Raylene to get out of character as she get more augmentations.

The film is about being yourself and the issues impersonators go through if they stay in character. The impersonations were decent. Raylene was filled with Dolly philosophy and truisms.

Guide: No swearing. Sex and nudity (Krew Boylan)

too scattergun for me

[merlincym · 4/10 · 30 November 2022]

You know what, from the shorts i thought this film was going to be a riot, sadly though for me it wasn't.

I'm not sure if it was down to the direction, or the production, or even ther story telling or what! But the one minute it's a slapstick comedy, then the next it's a serious socal issues film and then it's inwardly naval gazing self awareness film.

It's such a shame because there is a bucket load of tallent there, and it's a good story, i just wish it chose a route and stuck to it.

But as they say you pays your money and you take your choice. I found it disapointing, whereas my partner, she loved it!

What Walt's Watching

[waltermwilliams · 7/10 · 24 November 2022]

"Seriously Red" is a comedy with a powerful message about shedding your skin (sometimes literally) and finding out who you are underneath it all and who you really want to be.

It's something that alludes some people their entire lives.

I've been lucky and answered my calling as a Radio Show host of both on Music and Talk Back Radio and journalist at some of the best stations in Australia during my long, high rating and award winning career.

Then when the timing was right during a perfect storm I reinvented myself as a Voice Over Actor/Talent...something that had always been on the back burner.

Who knows what's next for any of us?

There was a time when people held down one job till they got their gold watch and retired, but not anymore.

Actress turned screenplay writer Krew Boylan taps into that and asked herself these questions when she stepped into the ambitious stilettos of a Dolly Parton impersonator.

She wrote a lead role for herself as "Red" a failed Realtor looking to follow her dreams, hopes and aspirations beyond the 9 to 5.

But this movie cuts like a knife, even deeper.

One moment you are laughing out loud and the next crying as the lead character and others deal with body dysmorphic disorder.

A condition that can't be cured, only treated.

If it's chronic it can last for years or be lifelong.

It's a mental illness involving obsessive focus on a perceived flaw in appearance.

This film marks the 5th collaboration between the seemingly flawless real life partners Bobby Cannavale and Rose Byrne as EP plus they both have pivotal roles on screen.

"Seriously Red" was filmed on location in Australia at Tweed Heads, Bryon Bay, Brunswick Heads and the Gold Coast.

The movie's director Gracie Otto is part of the Otto acting dynasty and does a great job of herding the cats in the musical based Dolly Parton inspired dramedy with a great soundtrack.

Parton fans will enjoy "Seriously Red" and it will find a cult audience in the Rainbow Community as has the lady herself.

Don't get me wrong it's a very funny Aussie movie also starring Daniel Webber as the worlds best "Kenny Rogers" impersonator.

Plus comedian and author Celeste Barber as "Teeth".

Just wait till you hear how she got her nickname.

The movies central theme reminded me of the timeless 1932 classic Tod Browning production of "Freaks" in a good way, even though it's not a horror movie.

Believe me that's a huge compliment coming from this reviewer.

Watch out for: Comedian and actress Jean Kittson as "Reds" mum "Viv" who gets to drop some very funny lines and truly learn to love her daughter.

Don't forget "Rocky Horrors" Nell (Little Nell) Campbell as "Doc Nell".

Tony Barry is kind of wasted as "Gramps" and another iconic Aussie actor Jack Thompson is on screen with no script. WTAF?

I would have loved to hear both of them deliver more lines.

While you're watching play spot the real celebrity pretending to be a copy of themselves at "The Copy Club" and others who actually make a career out of tribute acts including; 3 Brisbane locals, "Killer Queens" John Blunt, Trevor Ashley as Barbra Streisand and Gregory Andrew as Sir Elton John.

In fact, this piece of cinema is a beautiful homage to the sub-culture of Tribute Acts.

No doubt you already know there are two kinds of people.

Those who know how to have a good time and those who are willing to learn.

It's a weird enough movie I'll give you that so I'll throw you a bone.

Watch "Seriously Red" it's seriously fun.

This wild sequinned goose chase won't end well though for some of the players.

Krew Boylan shows us what she's made of and knocks it out of the park, so just wait for the awards nominations.

Boylan proves it costs a lot of money to look that cheap.

Disappointed

[rdc-20959 · 2/10 · 24 November 2022]

The idea was alright but my wife and I found the execution was poor. The characters had a crassness about them that we didn't find endearing. The sex scenes were tacky but then maybe that is what they are in the kind of situations that were portrayed.

The storyline had a valid message but how it was developed was ordinary to say the least. We didn't leave the cinema glad we had taken the time to watch it. We usually review movies positively as we want to see the good in the movie and the work that goes into it. This movie wasn't up to a standard that we found a level of worth to recommend to others.

I'm in it! Nuff said!

[NestorTheGreat · 7/10 · 2 April 2023]

Look for the handsome extra at the 46-minute mark when they are in Hong Kong, and at the hour and 21 minute where we're at Twin Towns Casino, Tweed Heads, New South Wales, Australia.

Seriously, it is a story about a loose canon becoming an independent woman when her strained mother-daughter relationship is further wedged when lies, costumes, and make-believe coalesce. Her journey is littered in let downs and undervalued courage. She meets pretenders who know who they are as she pretends to know who she wants to be dressed as her moral guide and idol, Dolly Parton.

When Red, the clumsy Real Estate Agent, burns bridges at a work party and becomes the woman she admires, to standing ovation, an impersonators' manager offers her a path out of her predicament. Out of the pot and into a saucepan as Red juggles her persona, wigs, and lacklustre breasts! Yes! Boob job to top off her transformation.

Knowing the actress also wrote this semiautobiographical comedy, and her bravura during the casino scenes at Tweed, elevates the film in my mind. Although there was a lot of film on the Cutting Room floor, as first hand witness to a bunch of takes that were unused, I can attest, the finished cut did the job in shorthand. It is a shame there is no bonus material to see what could have been.

Seeing her childhood best friend find happiness encourages Red to find hers, in the unlikeliest of places: a bar for trans impersonators! For those who do not understand metaphor, the shedding of her costume represents a new start. A new skin to take on the next project, whatever it may be.

Great performances by Daniel Webber: doing a spot-on Kenny Rogers; Celeste Barber: hilarious throughout, with an unfortunately cringe-worthy nickname, but her face in a Grease-like dream sequence takes the prize; and an Elvis impersonator that takes a few double takes to recognise, if you know the cast list! Even then, Elvis is a mystery in this film as in real life! Thomas Campbell unashamedly camp in his Bowie outfit, and a pleasure throughout. His voice is not heard, as Red drowns it out in her flamboyant fashion. And, finally, Bobby 'Antman's ex's new beau' Cannavale can also sing! His Lou Diamond impersonation deserves a whole outright movie with him headlining. It's that good! And on a personal note, Bobby: Sorry for not smiling and for looking like a dead mullet during your scene at the Hong Kong set. We'd been there since 4 a.m., and I was just sincerely in awe that you were in this small Aussie film being shot in my backyard...so to speak.

The scenes I'm referring occurred very late the night our nation closed its state borders due to the pandemic. I could have walked across the border to my home in Queensland, but I drove through the highway and got locked in as they were putting the barricades up. Took my a good long two hours to cross that invisible line! When I finally reached the officer that was getting a feel for the situation, he apologised that I had been waiting so long when they should have had two lanes, one to let QLD plates through, and the other to check the Blues' papers to cross over. He admitted to that, but it still took a long time to go home. This is why I think the filmmakers listed all of us extras in the credits! Thank you for that! Thank you, Krew, for sharing your story with the world! Well done!

Misguided

[yrgcc · 2/10 · 26 December 2022]

Starts so well. It's genuinely laugh out loud funny for the first hour but the story gets washed away and the tedium sets in. Such a shame. Full of fresh faces and established international actors one really wonders what went on. The writing, initially quite brilliant, becomes a painstaking attempt for laughs. It just doesn't sustain. The directing becomes woeful but without a solid script it's no wonder. There's no momentum whatsoever. Despite "Dolly's" rise to appearing on a Hong Kong stage, we are suddenly thrown back into her dreary Australian life. Bobby Cannavale's talents are wasted, as are most of the actors. It had genuine potential but sadly fell flat.

Surprising

[doggyloversteele · 9/10 · 27 November 2022]

I read mixed reviews for this movie before going to see it but I always have an open mind. I adored it..it made me want to laugh and cry and clap my hands all at the same time. Being a country music fan helped with the music content as I sang along and tapped my feet but don't let that stop you going if you aren't a Dolly and Kenny fan.

So heartfelt and funny and sad and genuine all rolled into one. I thought it was a masterpiece and over too soon. I felt like jumping to my feet with a standing ovation at the end and I couldn't stop smiling.e

If I was Dolly Parton I would he very happy with this film !

One small warning...contains nudity..quite a bit !

Keep your expectations low and you won't be disappointed

[kit-10224 · 6/10 · 26 March 2024]

I quite like Dolly Parton, and am a fan of comedy. Let's not say this clunked so much as... owed a lot to Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Muriels Wedding and Strictly Ballroom.

Jingoistic (without being "pro-war", in the archaic use)? Sure. A little bit "panto"? Definitely. But in the end with a bit of charm... like some kids who tried REALLY hard and are panting and waiting for your applause.

The script felt like it had been done by kid's tv producers who threw in a few bonking scenes to make it adult (the bum shot made me cringe). And the styling was a kind of obvious orange... and yet somewhat confusedly/contrasting blue, mostly achieved through buckets of paint. I had to leave the room in embarrassment at the end when the impersonator finally realises she's got to live in her own skin and ultimately becomes a teacher (I think).

I'd feel too mean to fail this, as it had enough to keep us going, but keep your expectations modest. And being a critic is a piss ant job because you only pick the flaws and not the pearls.

When is Australian Film Making Going to Move on?

[destiny_west · 2/10 · 20 January 2023]

The trailer to Seriously Red is a little deceiving. It portrays this film as more comedic than what it actually is, and more endearing than what it is.

As an Australian, and a film maker myself, I was quite embarrassed by this film. I wanted to walk out numerous times. When are we going to move on with portraying Australians in this kind of light?

I can't quite put my finger on it. A mixture of Twee and Ocker. Is it really necessary now? We are in 2023? We have moved passed The Castle and Muriel's Wedding. And I don't think we need to 'sell' Australia to an overseas market as a bunch of idiots.

The storyline is cliche, a daughter dragged down by her single mother, in a dead end job. Oh don't forget the daughter is a bumbling fool on top of that, oh she's a red head too with the obligatory best mate who idolises her but she mistreats.

Then of course she worships Dolly Parton and as fate has it, she is offered the chance to be a Dolly impersonator.

Things really do not get any better as the story goes a long.

I had been looking forward to Seriously Red for sometime. And if done "seriously" it could have been such a good film. Everything was such a let down. The acting was subpar, the directing was blah, the costuming was not great. I would definitely not recommend this to anyone. And I truly hope for Australian cinema that this does not make its rounds overseas.

An Accidental Viewing

[gatorau · 7/10 · 23 January 2024]

I happened upon this movie to watch one night. I started watching, expecting to flip over to the next movie channel after about 5 minutes but ended up staying for the entire film. Krew Boylan plays Red, a real estate agent who hates being a real estate agent and dreams of being a Dolly Parton impersonator. She sets a course to realise her dream and, in doing so, comes to understand that she needs to be comfortable in her own skin instead of somebody else's. Jean Kittson has a wonderful turn as Red's mum, on her own voyage of discovery.

There's a brief star watch in the movie when Red plays in Hong Kong. Keep both eyes open for Jack Thompson lolling in the background. Overall, it's a fun movie, with a not overbearing message about being yourself. Definitely worth watching.

Seriously W.T..F

[doglady-76945 · 1/10 · 18 March 2023]

Has anyone in this film ever googled what Dolly actually looks like. Kenny looks more like a Bee Gee and has no charisma. This film was embarrassing. Cmon Aussie Cmon....this was trash. How did this get made ? Please stop making trash Aussie movies.

I waited for this to come out on DVD as I had reservations for the big screen. So glad I didn't spend the money on the cinema ticket.

I gave this film 1 star reluctantly as the only good thing about it was most of the Dolly merchandise or memorabilia is in my personal collection. The soundtrack is amazing as it's Dolly but wasn't enough to keep my interest.

Unfunny, meandering, kind of queerphobic

[tpindustries · 1/10 · 23 August 2023]

Maybe I'm biased because I sat down to watch this after a long day at work just to see what it was about, but I just feel like there's so much negativity in this film that was probably supposed to come off as comedy but nah it just rubbed me the wrong way, the protagonist groped multiple people while dressed as dolly Parton and this is portrayed sympathetically from her side when she loses her job over it, she hangs out with this one guy who's supposedly her friend even though all he does is kick her when she's down, constantly frowns and says really mean discouraging things to her, the scenes featuring gay characters were really cringe, because it kind of just portrays all gay men as being really sexually aggressive (she performs as Dolly at a gay bar and several gay men try to grope her assuming she's a drag queen), lot of homophobia and transphobia that's kind of just slapped in there for no real reason, anyway I can see why Dolly Parton herself was not involved in this and I'm glad, meandering plot aside, it's just really unfunny and mean-spirited.

Heart warming film

[daniel-911-269841 · 9/10 · 13 June 2022]

Great Aussie Film that warms the heart and fills the would with the music from the great Dolly Parton. The ending could have been a little better as it felt like they rushed the last part and it didn't quite make sense but still loved in nonetheless.

Sneaks Up on You with Deeper Exploration of Dolly Parton's Magic

[FilmFanatic2023 · 8/10 · 11 February 2023]

A delightful film that explores the life of a huge Dolly Parton fan who stumbles into the world of celebrity imitators. The film, written and starring Krew Boylan as Red, appears light-hearted and fun on the surface, but it delves deep into the subject matter, making it a more complex and meaningful film than it first appears.

Red is a quirky character, struggling to keep a job and make her way in the world. However, when she finds an open-mic audition for Dolly impersonators, she begins to transform and find her voice. With the help of a famous Kenny Rogers impersonator, played by Celeste Barber, Red goes on tour and finds herself in the world of celebrity impersonation.

The film is filled with humorous moments, such as Red's hook-up with an Elvis impersonator, and her psychological deterioration as she becomes a successful Dolly impersonator. The supporting cast, including Thomas Campbell as Red's best friend Francis, Rose Byrne as the Elvis impersonator, and Bobby Cannavale as the club manager, add to the film's enjoyment.

"Seriously Red" is a film for Dolly Parton fans and those who appreciate the complexities of fandom. It is a unique and entertaining film that sneaks up on you with its deeper exploration of Dolly's magic and her impact on people's lives.

Whew! 😳

[jameshobsonusa · 10/10 · 13 February 2023]

A Great Movie, Well Worth Checking Out. Channel10 News should announce its showing at Governors Stadium Theaters as I was the only one in the entire movie house who was in attendance for it. Made Me Cry. Gave me the urge to watch Stephen King's 2013 Adaptation of Carrie - the one I had never seen before - when I returned home. A Genuine "Must Go See.".... 🎬Praise Jesus She has the skills it takes to channel it productively. The Sound Quality at the movie house is top-quality. Thank You! The popcorn was Delicious & CreamDream Sodas were Phenomenal! Surprised word hasn't gotten around about them by now. Parking was so convenient that I found a spot away from all of the other vehicles yet still a breeze of a health-stimulating stroll to the entrance. 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆