The Honourable Wally Norman

Watch The Honourable Wally Norman

"Every underdog has his day"
  • 2003
  • 1 hr 28 min
  • 5.5  (236)

The Honourable Wally Norman is a 2003 Australian comedy film directed by Ted Emery and written by Shaun Micallef and Gary McCaffrie. The movie stars Kevin Harrington as Wally Norman, an unemployed ex-bureaucrat who is struggling to find a job in the public service after being laid off. Alan Cassell plays the role of Wally's boss, while Shaun Micallef stars as a hapless television news reporter.

The movie uses Wally's story as a backdrop to satirize the Australian political system and bureaucracy, taking aim at everything from public service redundancies to the country's obsession with sport. The film is set in Melbourne, and much of the comedy comes from the local cultural references woven into the story.

Wally is a likable character who is proud of his work in the public service, despite having been let go. He spends much of the film trying to secure a new job, but finds that his previous experience is rarely valued by potential employers. His search leads him down a number of dead ends, until he finally lands a job with a local council. However, his new job quickly becomes a nightmare, as he finds himself working with a group of incompetent and corrupt colleagues.

The Honourable Wally Norman is a film with a strong social conscience, and its satirical edge is delivered with a biting wit. The filmmakers take aim at some of Australia's most cherished institutions, such as cricket and the Melbourne Cup, and expose much of the hypocrisy that lies beneath the surface. Despite its often cynical tone, the film remains an entertaining and accessible comedy that will appeal to a wide audience.

One of the standout features of the film is its excellent cast. Kevin Harrington delivers a nuanced performance as Wally, imbuing the character with warmth and humor. Alan Cassell is also excellent as Wally's boss, and his scenes with Harrington crackle with energy. Meanwhile, Shaun Micallef is a perfect fit for his role as the hapless reporter, delivering his lines with impeccable timing and a dry wit that is sure to appeal to fans of his other work.

The film also benefits from its beautiful cinematography, which captures the vibrancy and energy of Melbourne. The city is depicted as a diverse and colorful place, full of interesting characters and beautiful locations. The film's visual style is a perfect match for its irreverent and quirky humor, creating a unique and memorable cinematic experience.

Ultimately, The Honourable Wally Norman is a film about the struggles of the everyday person, and the challenges of navigating a complex and often unfair world. It is a film that is both funny and thought-provoking, and which leaves a lasting impression on its audience. Whether you're a fan of satire, Australian comedies, or just looking for a great movie to watch, The Honourable Wally Norman is well worth your time.

The Honourable Wally Norman
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Description
  • Release Date
    2003
  • Runtime
    1 hr 28 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.5  (236)