Birthday (IV) (2009)

M is the most esteemed professional of the many girls at Scarlet's but, even on her birthday, it's business as usual. M's trade is sex, but sex doesn't sell the way it used to; what clients are searching for, paying for, is love.

Director:

James Harkness

Writer:

James Harkness

Stars:

Natalie Eleftheriadis, Kestie Morassi, Richard Wilson

1 win.

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Natalie Eleftheriadis	...	M
Kestie Morassi	...	Lily
Richard Wilson	...	Joey
Travis McMahon	...	Father Phillip
Ra Chapman	...	Cindy
Chantal Contouri	...	Scarlet
Vicki Mueller	...	Carmen
Elias Georgopoulos	...	Baby Evie
Natasha St. Clare Johnson	...	Katy (as Natasha St. Clair-Johnson)
David Spencer-Gardner	...	Officer Kendall
D.M. Bradley	...	Father Spoor
Nathanial Johnston	...	Officer Geelan
James Black	...	Taxi Driver
Andrew Hall	...	Carmen's Client
Anne Eleftheriadis	...	Centrelink Attendant

Storyline

M is the highest paid professional of the many girls at Scarlet's, but, even on her 25th birthday, it's business as usual. M's trade is sex, but sex doesn't sell the way it used to; what client's are searching for, paying for... is love. Instead of celebrating, her day is spent answering the silent prayers of Father Phillip, who has lost his faith and providing counsel to her colleagues, the vivacious Lily and troubled Cindy. Amidst the many dramas that unfold and the demands of the 'no-nonsense' Scarlet, M's secret birthday wish goes unanswered. That is, until Joey knocks on her door; a young man, forgotten by the world, who has never learned to love, or even how to kiss. But Joey also has a secret, it's his Birthday too, and today M may just discover that even the smallest, most unexpected wish can come true. Birthday encompasses lost love, first times, humanity and the discovery of intimacy in surprising and unexpected places.

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Plot Keywords:

birthday | sex | love | faith | kiss | 

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Taglines:

Make A Wish

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Genres:

Drama

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Details

Official Sites:

Official site

Country:

Australia

Language:

English

Release Date:

8 December 2009 (USA)

Filming Locations:

Adelaide, South Australia, Australia

Box Office

Budget:

AUD 1,300,000 (estimated)

Company Credits

Production Co:

Flip It Red Entertainment

Technical Specs

Runtime:

104 min 104 min (original)

Sound Mix:

Dolby

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

2.35 : 1

Did You Know?

Trivia

The only member of the cast who appeared in the original stage production is Natalie Eleftheriadis.

User Reviews

Lost in Translation - Adelaide Style

I first saw BIRTHDAY at the Anchorage Film Fest played before a packed house in the dead of winter. It still gives me goosebumps just thinking about it. This is not due to the Alaska cold, but rather the amazing power it held over everybody. I was so moved I caught a second screening of it two days later and only found more to love. I do advise one bring tissues, however. This is one of the few films that everybody stays for the end credits-- praying the lights don't come up before they've wiped away the telltale tears. There was not a dry eye in the house – but trust me – it's the best possible kind of tears. The kind that remind you that you're human and glad of it.

I was shocked to see a less than positive review (among the other glowing ones) that made me realize something I think is worth sharing. This movie, though quite distinct, reminded me of Sofia Coppola's LOST IN TRANSLATION – one of my favorite films and another film that seems to meet with similarly divided reactions. I've met those who just "don't get it" – their words not mind. Some folks feel nothing happens in that movie. Those of us who relate to it see that EVERYTHING happens in that movie. So, if big moments expressed in small, intimate ways are not your cup of tea, you might not appreciate this film. But if you like films like LOST IN TRANSLATION, AN EDUCATION, BETTY BLUE – you're likely to love this one. I can't wait until it comes to the U.S. – did you hear that IFC? Weinsteins? Hurry up and get on the ball please!