Sweetie
Sweetie

Movie spotlight

Sweetie

1989
Movie
100 min
English

The buttoned-down, superstitious Kay is attempting to lead a normal existence with her new boyfriend Louis. That’s until Sweetie, her rampaging, devil-may-care sister, returns home after an absence, exposing the rotten roots of their family and placing a strain on Kay and Louis’ relationship.

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes80%
Director: Jane CampionGenres: Comedy-Drama, Drama

Plot Summary

Sweetie follows the chaotic lives of the Fontana family, focusing on the eccentric and destructive Sweetie and her timid, stuttering sister Kay. Sweetie's unpredictable behavior and penchant for destruction drive wedges between family members and wreak havoc on their relationships. The film explores themes of family dysfunction, mental health, and the search for love and acceptance in a world that often feels overwhelming.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Sweetie' garnered significant attention for its raw emotional intensity and unconventional storytelling. Critics praised Jane Campion's bold directorial vision and the film's unflinching portrayal of complex family dynamics. While some found its subject matter challenging, it was widely recognized for its originality and powerful performances, establishing Campion as a formidable new voice in cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unique and disturbing exploration of familial relationships.

  • Lauded Jane Campion's distinctive directorial style and powerful, often uncomfortable, realism.

  • Noted for its strong performances, particularly Genevieve Lemon as the titular character.

Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not readily available, but critical reviews highlight its challenging and distinctive nature.

Awards & Accolades

Screened in competition at the Cannes Film Festival (1989), Won Best Film at the 1989 Australian Film Institute Awards.

Fun Fact

Jane Campion initially intended 'Sweetie' to be a comedy, but the darker themes and characters naturally emerged during the writing and filming process.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
missmiserys

missmiserys

I dislike this film so much. Mental illness is portrayed absolutely horribly in it. None of the characters are likeable whatsoever. A waste of time that I would recommend to no one unless you want to be very annoyed.

CRCulver

CRCulver

When it starts off with the eccentric and shy Kay (Karen Colston) falling in love with the handsome Louis (Tom Lycos), Jane Campion's 1988 film SWEETIE promises a romantic comedy. When Kay's mentally ill sister Dawn (Genevieve Lemon) drops ...