Movie of the Day: Spit (2025) by Jonathan Teplitzky
- dailyentertainment95
- Apr 19
- 6 min read
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/au/movie/spit (Australia)
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt34748740/
About movie: https://www.transmissionfilms.com.au/films/spit
Detailed Summary: "Spit" follows Johnny Spitieri (David Wenham), a small-time ex-criminal who returns to Australia on a false passport after being on the run overseas for 20 years. He is promptly arrested and locked up in an Immigration Detention Centre. Here, Spit finds himself a target for old enemies looking to settle past scores. As he tries to stay one step ahead, Spit makes unexpected friends among the detainees, teaching them his unique version of Australian mateship and what it truly means to be Australian. The film is a comedy with elements of crime and drama, exploring themes of second chances, belonging, and the Australian identity.
Plot Summary: Twenty years after the events of "Gettin' Square," Johnny "Spit" Spitieri returns to Australia under a false identity. He is quickly apprehended by authorities and placed in an Immigration Detention Centre. Spit's reappearance doesn't go unnoticed by his old criminal associates, who are eager to settle old debts. While navigating the dangers within the detention center, Spit forms bonds with fellow detainees and, in his own unconventional way, imparts his understanding of Australian mateship and camaraderie.
Director's Vision: Jonathan Teplitzky returns to the character he helped establish in "Gettin' Square," aiming to create something special that goes beyond just a sequel. His vision for "Spit" includes generating empathy for refugees and for an ordinary person trying to reform after past mistakes. The film seeks to explore the core of Australian identity and the concept of giving everyone a fair go.
Themes:
Mateship and Australian Identity: Spit's interactions within the detention center explore what it means to be truly Australian and how mateship can bridge cultural divides.
Second Chances and Redemption: After years on the run, Spit's return forces him to confront his past and perhaps seek a new path. The theme of whether everyone deserves another chance is central.
Crime and Punishment: While comedic, the film touches on the consequences of past criminal actions and the ongoing threat they pose to Spit.
Belonging and Acceptance: In the unlikely setting of a detention center, Spit and the other detainees find a sense of community and connection.
Physical Comedy and Humor: Despite the serious themes, the film embraces physical comedy and wordplay, with David Wenham's portrayal of Spit being a key element of the humor.
Key Success Factors:
Return of a Beloved Character: Johnny "Spit" Spitieri is a memorable character from the Australian film "Gettin' Square," and his return is likely to draw in fans of the original.
David Wenham's Performance: Wenham's portrayal of Spit, embracing both the comedic and dramatic aspects of the character, is a significant draw.
Blending of Genres: The film successfully mixes comedy, crime, and drama, offering a diverse viewing experience.
Exploration of Contemporary Themes: The inclusion of the immigration detention center setting allows the film to touch upon current issues and explore the concept of Australian identity in a modern context.
Jonathan Teplitzky's Direction: Teplitzky's return as director from "Gettin' Square" provides a sense of continuity and understanding of the character and his world.
Summary Short: After 20 years abroad, ex-con Johnny "Spit" Spitieri returns to Australia on a false passport, lands in immigration detention, and finds himself teaching his version of mateship to fellow detainees while dodging old enemies.
Critics Reception: Critics' reception to "Spit" has been mixed to positive. Some reviews note that while it might not have the same lasting impact as "Gettin' Square," it offers fun and laughs, especially for fans of the original. The Film Pie review suggested that while Johnny Spitieri is funny in doses, the film might lack narrative and grit, needing more laughs for a strong endorsement. However, other reviews highlighted Wenham's comedic talent and the film's heart, suggesting it successfully blends humor with poignant moments and explores Australian identity.
Reviews:
Jordan and Eddie (The Movie Guys): Gave the film 3.5 out of 5, noting that while it might falter at times, it offers joy and laughs, especially for fans of "Gettin' Square," praising Wenham's performance.
The Film Pie: Was more critical, suggesting the film needed more narrative, grit, and laughs to warrant a strong endorsement.
The Pineapple: Highlighted Wenham's physical comedy and the film's ability to touch on contemporary themes and Spit's backstory, finding it both funny and heartbreaking.
At Darren's World of Entertainment: Found a pleasingly nostalgic vibe and praised Wenham's game performance and the physical comedy, drawing comparisons to "Morecambe and Wise" and "Porridge."
Overall Summary of Critics Reception: Reception to "Spit" seems to be divided, with some critics enjoying its humor and the return of the beloved character, while others felt it didn't quite live up to its predecessor or lacked in narrative depth. David Wenham's performance is generally praised as a highlight.
Box Office: "Spit" has grossed $581,306 worldwide, all within Australia according to IMDb.
Production: "Spit" is an Australian production that serves as a follow-up to the 2003 film "Gettin' Square." Jonathan Teplitzky, who directed the original, returns for this installment. The film was produced by Tracking Films Pty Ltd, with funding from Fulcrum Media Finance and Screen Australia.
Production Companies:
Tracking Films Pty Ltd (Australia)
Fulcrum Media Finance (Australia)
Screen Australia (Australia)
Sales Companies: Information about specific sales companies involved beyond the distributors mentioned is not readily available.
Distribution Companies:
Transmission Films (Australia) - handled the Australian theatrical release.
Release Date:
Theatrical Release: "Spit" was released exclusively in cinemas in Australia on March 6, 2025.
Streaming Release: Information about a specific streaming release date is not readily available in the provided search results.
Why to Recommend This Movie:
For Fans of "Gettin' Square": It's a continuation of the story with the return of a popular character.
If You Enjoy Australian Comedy with a Touch of Crime: The film blends humor with elements of the criminal underworld.
For David Wenham's Engaging Performance: His portrayal of Johnny "Spit" is a key highlight and source of comedy.
If You're Interested in a Film That Explores Australian Identity in a Modern Context: The detention center setting provides a unique backdrop for this theme.
Why to Watch Movie:
To See the Return of a Beloved Australian Film Character: Johnny Spitieri is a memorable and funny figure in Australian cinema.
For a Mix of Laughs and Heart: The film aims to balance comedic moments with more poignant and heartfelt scenes.
To Experience a Contemporary Australian Story: The setting in an immigration detention center adds a modern layer to the narrative.
To Support the Australian Film Industry: It's a locally made film with a recognizable character and talent.
What Movie Trend film is following:
Sequels and Spin-offs to Popular Cult Films: "Spit" revisits a character from a well-regarded Australian movie from the early 2000s.
Australian Comedies with a Crime Element: This genre has seen success in Australian cinema over the years.
What Big Social Trend is following:
Examination of Australian Identity and Mateship: The film explores these concepts in a contemporary multicultural setting.
Representation of Immigration and Detention Issues: The backdrop of an immigration detention center touches upon current social and political topics in Australia.
Final Verdict: "Spit" offers a mixed but generally enjoyable return to the world of Johnny Spitieri from "Gettin' Square." While it might not reach the heights of its predecessor for all viewers, David Wenham's performance and the film's blend of comedy and heart provide enough entertainment value, especially for fans of Australian cinema and the original movie. Its exploration of Australian identity within the setting of an immigration detention center adds a contemporary relevance to this comedic crime caper.
Recommendations for Film Makers:
Consider Revisiting Successful Characters in New Contexts: Bringing back a beloved character can attract an existing fanbase.
Balance Humor with Heart and Social Commentary: The film attempts to mix lighthearted comedy with more serious themes, which can resonate with audiences.
Utilize Strong Physical Comedy Skills in Lead Performances: David Wenham's performance relies heavily on well-executed physical humor.
Don't Be Afraid to Tackle Contemporary Social Issues Through Familiar Genres: Using a comedy framework to explore themes like immigration can make these issues more accessible to a broader audience.
Recommendations for Movie Industry:
Support the Production of Sequels or Spin-offs to Locally Successful Films: These can have a built-in audience and help bolster the local film industry.
Encourage the Development of Comedies That Reflect the National Identity: Films that tap into unique aspects of Australian culture can find both domestic and potentially international appeal.
Provide Opportunities for Established Actors to Return to Iconic Roles: David Wenham's return as Spit is a significant selling point for the film.
Consider the Value of Films That Can Spark Conversations About National Identity and Current Social Issues: Even within a comedic framework, films can offer insightful commentary.
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