Rushdi I
Two Hands is an iconic gem in the landscape of Australian cinema, and a film that stands the test of time, resonating with audiences for its unforgettable characters, thrilling narrative, and the exceptional performances by its cast. This film is a vibrant mix of drama, action, and dark humor, wrapped up in the unmistakable heart and soul of Australia.
The plot, centered around the life of a young, troubled man named Jimmy (played by Heath Ledger), takes us on a wild ride through the gritty underworld of Sydney. But it’s not just the twists and turns of the plot that make Two Hands such a standout—it’s the character development, the direction, and the electric performances that elevate this film into the realm of pure cinematic brilliance.
A standout feature of Two Hands is the remarkable Bryan Brown, who delivers one of his finest performances. Brown's portrayal of the hard-hitting, yet somehow empathetic, gangster boss Pando is nothing short of extraordinary. He brings an undeniable gravitas and authenticity to the film, and his portrayal of a man who rules his world with a mix of toughness and vulnerability is a performance to be remembered for the ages. Bryan Brown, without question, has cemented himself as one of the greatest actors Australia has ever produced. His nuanced and commanding presence is one of the many reasons why he is my favorite Australian actor. There’s a raw intensity to his work in Two Hands that speaks volumes about his craft—he can be both menacing and strangely likable, keeping you hooked throughout.
The film is also an incredible showcase for the talents of the late Heath Ledger, whose portrayal of Jimmy is a perfect balance of youthful naivety and tough determination. His chemistry with the cast, particularly with Brown, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Ledger’s performance is a beautiful testament to his talent and why he remains one of the most beloved actors in cinema.
Director Gregor Jordan’s handling of the story is equally commendable. His deft touch in balancing the film’s dark humor and moments of tension is what makes it so compelling. The Australian backdrop, combined with the music and pacing, creates a world that feels gritty, yet real, inviting the viewer to dive deep into the underbelly of Sydney's criminal underworld.
But what truly makes Two Hands stand out is its heart. While the film explores heavy themes like crime, loyalty, and betrayal, it does so with a certain lightness that prevents it from ever becoming too dark or heavy-handed. The character arcs are deeply human, and despite the chaotic lives they lead, there’s an underlying message about redemption, friendship, and the pursuit of a better life.
The film’s iconic moments, sharp dialogue, and unforgettable performances leave an indelible mark on anyone who watches it. From start to finish, Two Hands remains one of the most exciting, compelling, and expertly crafted films in the Australian film canon.
For anyone who loves Australian cinema, or simply great storytelling, Two Hands is a must-see. The film is an enduring classic, and Bryan Brown’s performance, in particular, is one of the shining highlights of this outstanding work of art. It’s no surprise that he’s my favorite Australian actor—his presence in this film alone makes it a masterpiece.👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
12/22/24
Full Review
Rushdi I
Two Hands (1999), directed by Gregor Jordan, is a cinematic masterpiece that has carved its name into the hearts of Australian movie lovers and beyond. For me, it's not just another film in a long list of cult classics; it’s one of my absolute favourite movies of all time. From its gripping storyline to its unforgettable performances, Two Hands stands as a shining example of Australian filmmaking at its best. And of course, the incredible Bryan Brown, one of Australia’s most beloved actors, delivers a performance that cements his place as my favourite Australian actor.
The film is an intoxicating mix of crime, drama, and comedy, a concoction that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats while simultaneously drawing out deep emotional resonance. The plot follows Jimmy (played by Heath Ledger in one of his earliest and most impressive roles), a young man caught up in a world of crime. After accidentally losing a large sum of money entrusted to him by a local crime boss, he embarks on a perilous journey to recover the funds. The tension is palpable, the stakes are high, and the characters’ journeys are nothing short of compelling.
What makes Two Hands stand out is how it expertly blends these serious elements with moments of pure humour and emotional depth. The film never takes itself too seriously, but it also doesn’t shy away from the dark realities of crime and the consequences of choices. There’s a beautiful tension between light-hearted, almost whimsical moments, and the raw, dangerous undertones that run through the narrative. It’s the kind of film that, upon reflection, lingers in your mind for days, because it’s not just about what happens on screen—it’s about what happens to you as a viewer.
For me, much of the film’s emotional weight lies in its characters, and Two Hands boasts a collection of some of the most memorable personalities in Australian cinema. Jimmy, played by the young Heath Ledger, is a character you can’t help but root for. His vulnerability and naivety juxtaposed against the gritty backdrop of Sydney’s criminal underworld create a compelling and relatable protagonist. Ledger’s performance is brimming with sincerity and heart, and his chemistry with the other characters is undeniable. It’s easy to see why he went on to become an international superstar.
But while Ledger’s performance is undeniably great, the true standout for me is Bryan Brown. Brown is an iconic figure in Australian cinema, and his role as the ominous crime boss, Pando, is nothing short of legendary. Brown brings a magnetic energy to the character, exuding both menace and charisma with equal skill. He’s the kind of actor who can command the screen with a mere glance or a subtle turn of the head. Every time he appears, the tension in the film seems to rise, not just because of the character’s actions, but because of Brown’s sheer presence. Pando is a dangerous man, but what makes Brown’s performance so captivating is that he imbues the character with complexity. He’s not a one-dimensional villain; he’s a man of contradictions—charming yet ruthless, calculated yet unpredictable. For me, Brown’s portrayal of Pando is one of the highlights of the film, and it solidified his place as my favourite Australian actor.
It’s not just his performance in Two Hands that stands out, though. Bryan Brown’s career spans decades and encompasses an array of remarkable roles, but it’s in films like this where his talent truly shines. He has this rare ability to capture the essence of a character with minimal effort. His scenes are often understated but incredibly effective. Whether he’s delivering a sharp line or simply observing the chaos around him, Brown’s understated intensity is always felt. It’s no surprise that he has remained such a staple in Australian cinema. His work in Two Hands continues to be one of his most iconic performances, and it’s clear to me that he’s an actor whose career deserves endless praise and admiration.
Another aspect of the film that deserves mention is the setting. The film’s portrayal of Sydney is intimate yet expansive, capturing the beauty and grittiness of the city in a way few films manage. It’s not the glamorous Sydney of tourist brochures, but a city teeming with life, contradictions, and stories. The setting becomes a character in itself, mirroring the chaos, danger, and redemption that unfolds. The cinematography is raw and immersive, with each frame adding to the feeling of tension that builds throughout the film. It’s a world that feels real, lived-in, and gritty, and it complements the story perfectly.
The film’s direction by Gregor Jordan is also crucial to its success. Jordan’s ability to seamlessly blend crime, drama, and comedy is a testament to his skill as a director. The pacing of the film is spot-on—never dragging or rushing—and the transitions between moments of high tension and light-hearted comedy feel natural rather than forced. Jordan has crafted a film that not only stands out in the Australian film canon but also resonates universally. He makes sure that while the plot is grounded in crime, the emotional arcs of the characters are always front and centre. The result is a film that is both exciting and emotionally resonant.
One of the most impressive elements of Two Hands is its ability to balance the weight of its subject matter with moments of humour. The wit in the film is sharp and often dark, but it never undermines the gravity of the situations the characters find themselves in. It’s this fine balance that makes the film so memorable. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but at the same time, it doesn’t shy away from exploring the consequences of the choices its characters make.
Ultimately, what makes Two Hands stand out as one of my favourite films is the perfect combination of memorable characters, stellar performances, an intriguing plot, and the way it captures the essence of Australia. Heath Ledger, Bryan Brown, and the entire cast elevate the material, bringing to life a world that is both thrilling and deeply human. Bryan Brown’s performance as Pando is one of the finest of his career, and it only adds to the many reasons I consider him my favourite Australian actor. Two Hands is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, and it’s a testament to the power of great storytelling and great performances. It is, without a doubt, a cornerstone of Australian cinema. 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
12/22/24
Full Review
Richard H
A treasure. First rate writing and performances. Rose Byrne is iridescent.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
01/01/24
Full Review
Michael A
All time Australian classic with an excellent ensemble. RIP Heath
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
02/22/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Watched this in my younger days and it was great to re-visit it. The Aussie culture played up quite a bit for the audience, enjoyable flick. The great late Heath Ledger.
Rated 4.5/5 Stars •
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
02/02/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Not bad for an Aussie film. Not a big fan of Aussie films myself even though I am an Aussie. But this was pretty good.
A good story line. Lots of good twists and some pretty funny moments.
Rated 2.5/5 Stars •
Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars
02/02/23
Full Review
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