Not Quite Hollywood: A Rollercoaster Ride Through Ozploitation

Keywords: Australian cinema, exploitation genre, 1970s and 80s, film history. Three words: Nostalgic, Adventurous, Insightful

"Not Quite Hollywood: The Wild, Untold Story of Ozploitation!" is a captivating documentary directed by Mark Hartley and released in 2008. The film delves into the lesser-known world of Australian exploitation genre cinema during the 1970s and 80s, offering viewers a fascinating glimpse into a unique chapter of film history.

Synopsis

The documentary explores the vibrant, wild, and often overlooked Ozploitation movement in Australian cinema. These films, known for their low budgets and high entertainment value, were packed with action, comedy, horror and sex. The documentary tells the untold stories behind these films and the creative minds who dared to go beyond the traditional boundaries of cinema.

More Film Analysis

Analysis

 
Not Quite Hollywood utilizes interviews, archival footage, and film clips to provide an in-depth look into the Ozploitation movement. Hartley's approach strikes a balance between informative and entertaining, making the documentary both a learning experience and a fun ride.

Historical and Factual Context

 
The Ozploitation movement emerged during a time of change for Australian cinema, as the industry began to embrace more daring and unconventional themes. These films were often met with controversy for their explicit content, but they also played a significant role in shaping modern Australian cinema.

Key themes in the film

  • The power of creativity in cinema
  • The impact of controversy and censorship
  • The evolution of Australian cinema

Film Comparisons

Not Quite Hollywood can be compared to other documentaries about niche film movements, such as "Electric Boogaloo: The Wild, Untold Story of Cannon Films". However, its focus on the unique Ozploitation genre sets it apart.

Noteworthy Moments

One of the most memorable moments in the documentary is the reveal of how these low-budget films managed to achieve their audacious stunts and effects, often with a mix of ingenuity and sheer daring.

Reviews

This documentary was well-received by audiences and critics alike. Critics praised it for its entertaining approach to a lesser-known chapter of film history, with one reviewer stating, "Not Quite Hollywood is as wildly entertaining as the films it covers."

Conclusion

Not Quite Hollywood is a must-watch for anyone interested in film history, Australian cinema, or the art of filmmaking. It offers an entertaining and insightful look into a unique cinematic movement and the creative minds behind it.

More film information:

FILM SUMMARY

  • IMDB score: 7.6
  • Awards: 1 win & 2 nominations

 

PERSONALITIES

  • Director: Mark Hartley, known for his work in documentaries about cinema history.

 

LOCATIONS

  • Australia, the birthplace and setting of the Ozploitation movement.

Key Questions Raised by the Film:

  • How did the Ozploitation movement influence Australian cinema?
  • How did these filmmakers manage to create such audacious films on low budgets?
  • What is the legacy of the Ozploitation movement today?


I wonder what the film would be in another art form

  1. If this film was a famous book, it would be "Pulp Fiction: The Complete Story of Quentin Tarantino's Masterpiece" for its exploration of a unique genre.
  2. If this film was a famous song, it would be "Born to be Wild" by Steppenwolf for its rebellious spirit and daring attitude.
  3. If this film was a famous piece of art, it would be Salvador Dali's "The Persistence of Memory" for its surreal and boundary-pushing nature.
  4. If this film was a famous celebrity, it would be Quentin Tarantino for his love of exploitation cinema and boundary-pushing films.
  5. If this film was a color, it would be electric blue for its vibrant energy and boldness.
  6. If this film was a music style, it would be rock 'n' roll for its rebellious spirit and energetic vibe.