Lieutenant Jangles

"Lieutenant Jangles" is a vibrant, audaciously funny, and action-filled comedy film from Australia, released in 2018. It is written and directed by Nicolas Champeaux and sees Matt Dickie in the lead role as Lieutenant Jangles, in a performance that is as uproarious as it is memorable. Other key cast members include Justin Gerardin and Tamara McLaughlin who play pivotal roles in the movie. With its blend of humour, action, and predictable 80s charm, it is a fun and entertaining watch for audiences who are fans of satirical comedy and action films with a retro feel.

Set against the backdrop of 1986 Brisbane, the movie brings to life the flamboyant, quick-witted, and unorthodox cop, Lieutenant Jangles. Matt Dickie portrays the titular character displaying an unmatched charisma that is sure to impress the audience. Jangles is a law enforcement officer unlike any other - he's unconventional in his methods, yet highly effective in his results. His larger-than-life personality, irreverent sense of humour, and unique approach to policing make him a standout character that viewers will root for, despite his many flaws.

The film begins with Jangles getting assigned a case to solve a mysterious chain of crimes that include drugs and violence. Alongside him is his partner, Sergent Montague Gibbons, played brilliantly by Justin Gerardin. Gibbons balances Jangles' antics with his more practical, by-the-book approach, creating a dynamic that adds depth and diversity to the story. Their partnership, filled with humorously contrasting styles and occasional conflicts, forms a significant part of the movie's comedic elements. Their investigation takes them through a motley crew of Brisbane’s underworld filled with colorful crooks and bad guys, each more outrageous than the last.

Another standout character is the feisty, spirited Kathleen Daphne, brilliantly portrayed by Tamara McLaughlin. Kathleen, in her role, provides a female perspective within the masculine and often chauvinistic world of 1980s policing. Kathleen is no damsel in distress, she's a strong and sensible woman who also ends up becoming an integral part of the investigation.

"Lieutenant Jangles" features a fair share of exciting high-speed car chases, heart-pounding fights, and wild shootouts, paying tribute to the high-energy action movies of the ’80s. What sets it apart is its riotous humor, with wittily scripted dialogue, slapstick incidents, and hilarious one-liners delivered with rapid-fire speed. The film does not shy away from poking fun at the clichés and stereotypes commonly associated with action films. At the same time, it takes pleasure in lampooning the social norms of the ’80s, offering a comedic twist on nostalgia that resonates with newer and older audience members.

The film's backdrop of Brisbane, featuring spectacular locales and vintage aesthetics, compliments the storyline and adds authenticity to the movie's setting. The cinematography employs innovative techniques to create a vibrant and retro vibe that matches the narrative's pace and tone.

"Lieutenant Jangles" also features a great soundtrack that successfully channels the energy of the ’80s with catchy tunes and foot-tapping music that add to the overall appeal of the film. The film’s score complements the action sequences and the narrative’s comedic beats, adding another layer of authenticity to its homage to the '80s.

In conclusion, "Lieutenant Jangles" is a high-energy, hilariously funny action-comedy that seamlessly blends nostalgia with an irreverent take on the action films of the ’80s. Underneath the layer of over-the-top action and comedy, it has an inherent charm and memorable characters that make it thoroughly entertaining. Despite its parody-like approach, the story-line is well-crafted and engaging, offering thrills and laughs aplenty. For fans of offbeat comedies and action films or for those who simply love a good laugh, "Lieutenant Jangles" is not to be missed.