Liebe (Maggie Blinco) is an old woman who spends her days around the home or supporting her husband Duncan (Glenn Shorrock), who works as a singer at a local pub in NSW, Australia. But when Liebe’s husband is fired, tensions in their relationship grow. Liebe only wants to help and support her husband, but sadly, the support and kindness she offers is not shown in return from Duncan.
One day Liebe decides to visit the local markets. While looking around, she meets a young fashion designer named Hamish (Hoa Xuande). This meeting reignites Liebe’s heart, and she decides to revisit her old hobby of dressmaking. Not only is she excited to be making dresses once again, but Liebe wants to use her hobby to create solid profits now that Duncan is out of work.
A Stitch in Time is best described as a heartfelt drama film. Liebe is quite likeable as she wishes only to please others around her. It’s obvious that she longs for friendship and respect, especially from her husband, no matter how disrespectful he is. Naturally, throughout the film, Liebe will be pushed to make challenging choices related to her marriage, friendships, and standing up for the things that bring joy and happiness into her life. There’s a wonderful story here, and the film will certainly pull on the heartstrings of many audiences.
The visuals of this film are great, and it’s obvious the director/filmmakers prioritised this. The performances, for the most part, are fine. Unfortunately, certain key moments do miss their mark as actors seem more suited to the stage, use lines that seem unfitting or deliver lines robotically. Funnily enough, when characters are emotional or angry, their performances shine in a more positive light and manner. A few slight errors also amazed me that they were left in the final product. One example is some marks on the camera lens during a scene. Most audience members will miss these errors, but I found those errors ever so slightly distracting upon my first watch.
Overall, as a directional debut, I’m proud to say I enjoyed this film a fair bit. It’s a solid, feel-good dramatic story that nails its positive messaging while telling an uplifting story. While the film has moments of acting that seem slightly unfitting or more suitable for the big stage, the message and story can’t be argued with. The emotions aimed for in this are all present and unavoidable. It is a solid Aussie film that’s certainly worth a watch- just be sure to wear your best dress while doing so.
6.4/10
14th February 2022
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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Terrific STITCH review thankyou…screening in 81 cibemas Nationwide this week…
Thanks Paul, you’re most welcome! Thank you also for the update relating to cinema screeenings.