Head On

Starring: Alex Dimitriades, Paul Capsis Director: Ana Kokkinos Original UK Premiere: 2000 Dvd Release: 30th October, 2000 Number Of Discs: 1 Format: Anamorphic, PAL, Region 2 Encoding

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I thought this was an OK film, taking an interesting look at cultural identity. Clearly 'Ari' doesn't feel completely akin with his greek identity, acutely aware as all of the younger generation in this film are that they're '...not in Europe anymore'.. At the same time, the film tries to explore youth identity I think in that the younger members of the cast, playing the sons & daughters of the immigrant greek families, reject conventional notions of identity - some clearly seek an identity on the outside of western/Australian society, in addition to their ambivalence about their cultural roots. There are also some interesting points about gay culture, a culture which Ari dips into to satisfy himself sexually but, unlike 'Johnny', is not prepared to commit himself fully.

I think these points are positive & interesting. But the whole identity crises aren't new & this film doesn't do anthing extraordinary. Its OK, but not brilliant. One last point, the main actor gives an interview on the DVD in which he appears amazingly arrogant - this erroded any attraction evoked by 'Ari'!!

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