Inspired by Real Events. Angie (Jackie Marshall) once had the opportunity to be an all-time famous musician, but instead, she made hasty choices that interfered with her goals. Angie currently has bone cancer, which she has been fighting for much of her life. To get by and pay the bills, she regularly plays at a local pub until one evening, Angie snaps and claims she has had enough. It doesn’t help that she feels unwell and suffers pain in her hands while trying to play the guitar. Living on her own and sick, Angie is attempting to push herself with the remaining money and energy she has left to try and complete what will be her last best-selling album before time runs out.
On the flip side, we also meet a young girl named Ruby (Maisie Owens), who is on the run with no desire to return home. One evening, desperate for somewhere to sleep, Ruby checks cars parked on the street until she finds one unlocked. This car happens to be outside Angie’s home. Angie soon finds Ruby sleeping in the vehicle and approaches her in a friendly manner, but Ruby panics and runs off. However, it’s not long before the two cross paths again. Ruby is interested in Angie’s skill and talent for songwriting and guitar playing. Soon, Angie becomes Ruby’s close friend and even takes Ruby on as an understudy, bringing them both fulfilment and joy. However, Ruby has no idea of Angie’s current health situation, and Angie is struggling to reveal the news.
Three Chords and the Truth is best described as a drama film. Naturally, the story is quite deep and touching as we meet two characters suffering and struggling with their past and present issues. Angie’s introducing songwriting and guitar to Ruby allows her to express her emotions in a new way. The story is a wonderful one, and I admired how two unlikely people could somehow unite and strengthen each other through their pain and suffering.
Visually, this is a stunning-looking film, and the majority is crisp and sharp. The audio track is also pleasing, and the musical moments sound great. Performances are generally acceptable, with Jackie Marshall as Angie being the notable standout. She is the film’s natural strength and delivers the most robust performance. The side performance of Matthew L Heys, who plays Ruby’s father, also provides touching and compelling moments.
[mailerlite_form form_id=1]As for concerns, there are a couple. While the performances are generally okay, I can’t deny there are moments of dialogue that feel hugely clunky and come across as unnatural, especially during the first act. Pacing is also slightly questionable as some moments occur far quicker than expected, including the friendship of Angie and Ruby. Ruby’s introduction to music also feels somewhat rushed. While the story is basic, I thought some aspects came across as slightly vague, especially all the details of Angie’s past and the reasonings behind her music career.
Overall, I’m proud to say what a wonderful experience this dramatic and touching story of an unlikely friendship and bond is. I loved seeing the leading characters attempting to conquer their pasts and challenges together. For the most part, performances are excellent, with Jackie Marshall particularly shining here. Those who enjoy music will also be fond of the many moments throughout. At its core, the story is the strongest aspect, but I can’t deny that moments of clunky dialogue, some edits that feel slightly abrupt, and scenes that feel rushed all affect the final results. Still, I’m confident many viewers will have more than adequate time and a pleasing experience with this Australian film, especially given all the themes and drama on display.
6.5/10
4th November 2022
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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