The Sapphires

The Sapphires is a 2012 Australian musical comedy-drama film directed by Wayne Blair and written by Tony Briggs and Keith Thompson. The film is based on a true story, inspired by the experiences of Briggs' mother and aunt during the late 1960s as part of an Aboriginal all-girl singing group.

The film begins in rural Australia in 1968, where four young, talented Aboriginal women – Gail, Cynthia, Julie and Kay – are struggling to find success as singers. Their chance at musical stardom comes when they meet Dave Lovelace, a down-on-his-luck Irish musician played by Chris O'Dowd, who recognizes their raw talent and believes he can mold them into a successful group.

Despite their initial hesitations, the women are soon convinced to join Dave on his mission to bring soul music to the war-torn troops in Vietnam. In order to secure a spot in the entertainment lineup, the group – now known as The Sapphires – must audition for and impress the tough-talking US Army captain in charge.

As they prepare for their journey to Vietnam, The Sapphires are forced to confront their changing identities and their roles in a country that does not accept them. Through their music, they find a way to connect with the American soldiers and provide them with a moment of respite from the horrors of war.

The Sapphires is a heartwarming and uplifting film that tackles issues of race, identity, and the power of music to bring people together. The performances by the four leads – Deborah Mailman as Gail, Jessica Mauboy as Julie, Miranda Tapsell as Cynthia, and Shari Sebbens as Kay – are standout, with each actor bringing a unique energy and personality to their character.

Chris O'Dowd is also a highlight of the film, delivering a charming and funny performance as the lovable but flawed Dave. The chemistry between him and the women is palpable, and their interactions provide some of the film's most entertaining moments.

The music in The Sapphires is a standout element of the film, with covers of classic soul songs like "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and "What a Man" providing a lively and energetic soundtrack that perfectly captures the exuberance of the period. The inclusion of Aboriginal music and culture in the film also adds another layer of depth to the story, highlighting the unique contributions of Australia's Indigenous people to the country's cultural landscape.

Overall, The Sapphires is a must-see film that will leave audiences humming its catchy tunes and feeling uplifted by its inspiring tale of perseverance and the power of music.