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Reviews
Dope (2004)
Intelligent, accurate and brave! Stunning!
"Dope" was the original title of the highly acclaimed Australian feature "Shot of Love" released illegally under this name and prematurely as it had not yet received it's final cut. The themes of this brave piece are highly controversial and, more importantly, highly relevant, which will undoubtedly be more than some conservative Australian viewers are able to digest. It's accurate portrayal of the homeless and the drug-dependent are eye-opening, exceptionally well performed and break all the tedious stereotypes that so often appear in both film and television. The narrative, is undoubtedly intriguing and complex, but is also highly intelligent and allows for insight into the complicated minds and lives of the intertwined characters. As for the racial conflict that takes place, few Australian films have approached the topic on such a domestic level, with such insight. Paralleling the love story between the multicultural lead characters Laura and Russell, we see the trial of an Indigenous Australian man unfairly accused of abusing a Caucasian female in the form of "Law TV", a reality television show. Whilst there are indeed moments when Laura is quite open about her racial ignorance, it should not be perceived as literal, but rather as satirical which was obviously the writer's intent. These moments of honesty and clarity are a part of Laura's awakening, as is also evident in the beautifully shot intimate scenes. "Shot of Love" is sexy and intelligent. The films intention is clear; we all have our vices, our drug of choice, and we all abuse. "Shot of Love" contains some outstanding performances, vital messages and Writer/Director J.Harkness and his team should be applauded for achieving the almost impossible, succeeding in getting quality Australian film off the ground! A must see!