(spoiler free)
From Australian filmmaker Mirrah Foulkes comes a new spin on the classic Punch and Judy puppet show. The title-flipped Judy and Punch tells the story of two puppeteers who, whilst attempting to take their puppet show to the big smoke, must also contend with their troublesome relationship, and more specifically Punch’s drinking problem. The film stars Mia Wasikowska & Damon Herriman as the titular Judy and Punch.
The film opens with François Tétaz’s tremendous score, immediately whisking audiences away into the fairytale style set up for the film’s narrative. It brings with it an irresistible energy that engages from the outset and is a constant highlight of this hugely entertaining film. The narrative starts really strongly too, with a performance from the puppeteers that rouses their local audience. While the audience in the film watch, real-life viewers are treated to an array of intriguing character insights and context for the story all within this opening sequence. There are numerous parallels between the content of the puppet show and the characters operating said puppets; this aspect of the narrative is very clever and is executed with precision and flair.
The film delivers a plenitude of shocking, funny and endearing moments throughout its narrative but there is a slight lull experienced in the second act. Nonetheless the fantastic concept carries the film through this brief period and the film ends as strongly as it begins. Wasikowska & Herriman are wonderful in the leading roles, delivering two excellent performances. Despite the more feminist approach to the film, it still feels like Herriman has more to do, but he does it so well that it’s hard to hold this against the film, and it’s necessary to make Judy and Punch as effective as it is. Wasikowska is a wonderful choice to portray Judy and she excels at every turn, making this one of her best roles to date.
There are certainly no strings holding this cast back, as the supporting performers contribute brilliantly as well. The cast as a whole work superbly with this screenplay and showcase how impressively Foulkes has crafted an original period piece, full of creativity that packs a punch, hitting nearly all of its target. That’s the way to do it!
Written by Hamish Calvert
★★★★
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Thanks to Queens Film Theatre for screening access
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