The Devil's Playground (1976) [Best Fred Schepisi Movies]

The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1978)

"The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith" (1978) is a powerful and unflinching adaptation of the novel by Thomas Keneally, based on the true story of a part-Aboriginal man who finds the pressure of adapting to white culture intolerable. Tommy McCrae's struggle with alienation and injustice culminates in a violent and horrific eruption, making this a stark and often brutal examination of the devastating consequences of cultural clash and racial prejudice in colonial Australia. Fred Schepisi masterfully captures the raw emotion and the escalating desperation of the protagonist, creating a deeply affecting and thought-provoking cinematic experience. This film rightfully claims its place among Fred Schepisi's best for its bold and uncompromising exploration of a difficult and crucial period in Australian history. Schepisi's directorial vision is evident in the film's visceral portrayal of McCrae's torment and the societal forces that drive him to his tragic fate. The performances are exceptional, particularly Tommy E. Lewis Jr. as Jimmie, and the film's stark cinematography enhances its thematic weight. "The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith" is a landmark in Australian cinema, a testament to Schepisi's ability to tackle complex social issues with artistic integrity and cinematic brilliance.

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A Cry in the Dark (1988)

"A Cry in the Dark," also known as "Evil Angels," is a gripping and harrowing drama that plunges viewers into the true story of Lindy Chamberlain. During a fateful camping trip to Australia's iconic Ayers Rock, Lindy claimed a dingo snatched her infant daughter, Azaria, from their tent. The tragic disappearance and the subsequent inability to find Azaria's body ignited a firestorm of suspicion and legal proceedings. Lindy found herself accused of murder, her ordeal transforming into a relentless media circus that captivated and divided the public. Fred Schepisi's masterful direction elevates "A Cry in the Dark" beyond a mere recounting of a sensational trial. Schepisi expertly navigates the complex emotional landscape of Lindy's plight, forcing the audience to grapple with doubt and the profound impact of a legal system under intense media scrutiny. The film's unflinching portrayal of societal prejudice and the chilling reality of a woman ostracized and condemned by public opinion, even before a fair verdict, showcases Schepisi's talent for crafting resonant narratives that challenge conventional wisdom. This unflinching examination of a deeply flawed justice system, coupled with Schepisi's signature visual style and Meryl Streep's powerhouse performance, solidifies "A Cry in the Dark" as a vital and compelling entry in his esteemed filmography.

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Last Orders (2001)

"Last Orders" is a poignant and deeply human film that centers on the life and legacy of Jack Dodd, a beloved London butcher. For over five decades, Jack was a familiar fixture in his community, known for his camaraderie and his enjoyment of a pint with his friends. His death, as it turns out, was as characteristically robust as his life – he passed away with a smile, engrossed in a horse race on which he had placed a bet, even with borrowed funds. His final, heartwarming request was for his ashes to be scattered at sea in Margate, a wish his loyal friends, Ray, Lenny, and Vic, along with his foster son Vince, embark on a memorable journey to fulfill. Director Fred Schepisi masterfully weaves together the interwoven lives, loves, and disappointments of these men as they travel towards the coast, their shared memories of Jack and his late wife, Amy, providing the emotional bedrock of the narrative. Schepisi’s signature ability to capture authentic human relationships and explore themes of friendship, loss, and the passage of time makes "Last Orders" a standout in his filmography. The film’s rich character studies, understated humor, and profound emotional resonance, all brought to life with Schepisi’s sensitive touch, solidify its place among his best works.

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Six Degrees of Separation (1993)

In Fred Schepisi's critically acclaimed 1993 drama, *Six Degrees of Separation*, audiences are drawn into the captivating and unsettling world of Paul, a charismatic young Black con artist. Paul's audacious plan to infiltrate the lives of a wealthy white New York family, posing as the son of screen legend Sidney Poitier, unravels a complex web of deception, social commentary, and human vulnerability. Will Smith delivers a breakout performance as Paul, a master manipulator who expertly exploits the desires and insecurities of his targets, forcing them to confront their own carefully constructed realities and the superficiality of their privileged existence. This film stands as a testament to Schepisi's directorial prowess, earning its place on any "Best Fred Schepisi Movies" list for its sharp intelligence and nuanced exploration of themes like race, class, identity, and the power of storytelling. Schepisi masterfully orchestrates the unfolding drama, balancing moments of dark humor with profound pathos. He skillfully guides the ensemble cast, including the formidable Stockard Channing and Donald Sutherland, through a narrative that is both thrillingly suspenseful and deeply thought-provoking. *Six Degrees of Separation* showcases Schepisi's ability to craft films that are not only entertaining but also intellectually stimulating, challenging audiences to question their perceptions of truth and connection in a world increasingly defined by artifice.

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Roxanne (1987)

Fred Schepisi's 1987 film *Roxanne* offers a modern, charming reimagining of the classic tale "Cyrano de Bergerac." Here, Steve Martin stars as C.D. Bales, a fire chief with a famously large nose, who harbors a secret affection for Roxanne (Daryl Hannah). While Roxanne is drawn to C.D.'s wit, intelligence, and poetic soul, she's also captivated by the handsome features of his less eloquent subordinate, Chris, whom C.D. subtly coaches to win Roxanne's heart. This masterful blend of romantic comedy and heartfelt drama explores themes of beauty, perception, and the enduring power of genuine connection. *Roxanne* stands as a testament to Schepisi's directorial prowess and his ability to adapt classic literature with fresh, insightful perspectives. The film showcases his keen eye for visual storytelling, evident in the picturesque Oregon setting and the subtle nuances of character performance. Schepisi imbues the narrative with a warmth and authenticity that elevates it beyond a simple romantic comedy. He expertly balances the inherent humor of the premise with a deeply moving exploration of unrequited love and self-acceptance, making *Roxanne* a standout work in his filmography and a prime example of why he is considered one of cinema's most accomplished directors.

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Words and Pictures (2013)

"Words and Pictures" (2013) is a charming and insightful film that delves into the age-old debate of whether language or visual art holds greater sway. The story centers on Dina Wilde (Clive Owen), a jaded art instructor at a prep school, and Jack Marcus (Juliette Binoche), a vibrant English teacher. Their initial animosity blossoms into a full-blown rivalry, culminating in a school-wide competition where students are tasked with deciding which medium—words or pictures—is more impactful. This unique premise provides a platform for exploring creativity, self-expression, and the power of different forms of communication, all within the engaging setting of a high school. Fred Schepisi's direction in "Words and Pictures" showcases his knack for character-driven narratives and his ability to imbue stories with both humor and heart. He masterfully navigates the dynamic between Owen and Binoche, creating a compelling on-screen chemistry that fuels the film's central conflict and eventual resolution. Schepisi brings a thoughtful visual style to the artistic debates, allowing the film to not only champion the power of words and pictures but also to demonstrate it through its own cinematic language. The film’s exploration of passion, compromise, and the enduring value of arts education makes it a worthy addition to any list of Schepisi's best work, highlighting his talent for crafting films that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

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Barbarosa (1982)

"Barbarosa (1982)" is a richly textured Western that masterfully blends elements of classic genre tropes with the distinctive directorial touch of Fred Schepisi. The film follows Karl Westover, a naive farm boy forced to flee his home after an accidental killing. His desperate flight leads him into the orbit of Barbarosa, a legendary, enigmatic gunman. Barbarosa, too, is on the run, targeted by the powerful and vengeful Don Braulio, a wealthy Mexican rancher whose daughter he married without permission. As Barbarosa reluctantly takes the bumbling Karl under his wing, they find themselves unlikely allies, united by the common goal of survival against the formidable forces pursuing them. This film undoubtedly earns its place on a list of Fred Schepisi's best for several compelling reasons. Schepisi, known for his keen eye for character and his ability to imbue even familiar genres with a fresh perspective, delivers a visually stunning and emotionally resonant Western. He uses the vast, arid landscapes of the American Southwest not just as a backdrop, but as a character in itself, mirroring the isolation and harshness faced by his protagonists. Furthermore, Schepisi expertly explores themes of mentorship, survival, and the blurred lines between good and evil through the evolving dynamic between the innocent Karl and the hardened Barbarosa. The film’s nuanced performances, particularly from Gary Busey as Barbarosa and Willie Nelson as Karl, are brought to the forefront by Schepisi’s sensitive direction, making "Barbarosa" a standout example of his talent for crafting character-driven narratives within atmospheric and visually arresting settings.

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I.Q. (1994)

In Fred Schepisi's "I.Q." (1994), Albert Einstein, played with gentle charm, finds himself subtly nudging a budding romance involving his niece, played by Meg Ryan. When a car mechanic named Ed (Tim Robbins) falls head over heels for her, he finds himself woefully outmatched in the intellectual arena. In a delightful twist, Einstein, along with his equally brilliant friends, temporarily adopt the persona of a great physicist to orchestrate a series of "chance" encounters and intellectual sparring matches, all designed to pique Ed's interest and, by extension, his niece's. This premise allows for a charming blend of romance, witty dialogue, and a surprisingly heartfelt exploration of intelligence and the things that truly matter in life. "I.Q." undeniably earns its place among the best Fred Schepisi movies due to his masterful direction of tone and character. Schepisi expertly balances the film's inherent whimsy with genuine emotional depth, ensuring the romantic comedy never feels saccharine or forced. He allows the ensemble cast, featuring stellar performances from Walter Matthau as Einstein and Charles Boyer as his friend, to shine, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. More importantly, Schepisi uses the scientific backdrop not as a mere gimmick, but as a vehicle to explore themes of genuine connection, the limitations of pure intellect, and the spark of personality that truly captivates. It’s a film that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, a testament to Schepisi's skill in crafting stories that are both intelligent and deeply human.

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The Russia House (1990)

The Russia House, a taut espionage thriller from 1990, plunges an unsuspecting expatriate British publisher, Bartholomew "Barley" Scott Blair, into the clandestine world of international intelligence. When a mysterious Russian woman delivers a manuscript detailing the Soviet Union's nuclear capabilities, Barley is thrust into a dangerous game of cat and mouse orchestrated by British intelligence, who task him with investigating key figures within Russia. This unexpected role forces him to navigate treacherous political landscapes and personal loyalties, all while trying to uncover the truth behind the explosive revelations in the manuscript. Fred Schepisi's direction elevates "The Russia House" beyond a typical spy flick, making it a standout in his filmography and a strong contender for his best work. Schepisi masterfully captures the atmosphere of late Cold War paranoia, blending gripping suspense with a surprisingly humanistic portrayal of his protagonist, played with nuanced weariness by Sean Connery. The film's visual style is striking, employing evocative cinematography to depict both the austere beauty of Russia and the suffocating tension of espionage. Furthermore, Schepisi's ability to extract compelling performances from his cast and craft a narrative that is both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant solidifies "The Russia House" as a prime example of his directorial talent.

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Iceman (1984)

In Fred Schepisi's thrilling science fiction drama, *Iceman* (1984), an anthropologist is called to a remote arctic base when a team of explorers unearths an extraordinary discovery: the perfectly preserved body of a prehistoric man, frozen in a solid block of ice for a staggering 40,000 years. As scientists carefully thaw the ancient remains to conduct an autopsy, they are met with an astonishing revelation – the "iceman" shows signs of life. Their audacious attempt to revive this relic of the past proves remarkably successful, plunging the team into a race against time to understand and adapt to the reanimated Neanderthal. This film earns its place on a list of Schepisi's best for its intelligent exploration of themes that resonate throughout his filmography. *Iceman* grapples with the profound ethical questions surrounding scientific intervention, the clash between ancient instinct and modern civilization, and the very nature of humanity. Schepisi masterfully balances the spectacle of a groundbreaking scientific feat with a deeply human story, eliciting a compelling performance from Timothy Hutton as the bewildered anthropologist and John Lone as the enigmatic iceman. The film's thought-provoking narrative and Schepisi's characteristic visual flair make it a standout example of his ability to craft engaging and meaningful cinema.

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Mr. Baseball (1992)

In "Mr. Baseball" (1992), Jack Elliot, a once-proud MVP of the New York Yankees, finds himself at a crossroads. With his batting average plummeting and his career on the downward slide, he's given a surprising, and somewhat desperate, lifeline: a contract with the Chunichi Dragons of Japan's Central League. The film chronicles Elliot's reluctant journey to a new country and a drastically different baseball culture, where he must confront his own aging abilities and the expectations of his new manager, who hopes to reignite the spark of the aging slugger. Fred Schepisi's distinctive directorial touch is evident in "Mr. Baseball," making it a worthy addition to his best work. Schepisi excels at crafting character-driven narratives that explore themes of cultural adaptation and personal redemption, and this film is no exception. He skillfully navigates the comedic and dramatic potential of Elliot's fish-out-of-water experience, balancing the cultural clashes with genuine moments of human connection. The film's exploration of the clash between American individualism and Japanese collectivism, handled with Schepisi's typical nuance, provides a rich backdrop for Elliot's personal quest, solidifying its place among his most thoughtful and engaging films.

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Plenty (1985)

David Hare's screenplay for "Plenty" chronicles the poignant journey of Susan Traherne, a former Special Operations Executive (SOX) agent during World War II, whose wartime heroism and exhilaration starkly contrast with the mundane and disillusioning reality of her post-war life. The film meticulously portrays Susan's struggle to reconcile her experiences of purpose and intense connection with the expectations of British society and her own desires for fulfillment. As she navigates her career and relationships, the lingering shadows of her past and the unfulfilled promise of a meaningful future weigh heavily, leading to a profound sense of personal crisis and alienation. Fred Schepisi's masterful direction imbues "Plenty" with a resonant emotional depth and visual splendor, making it a standout in his filmography and a prime example of his ability to explore complex human experiences. Schepisi expertly captures the fading glamour of post-war Britain while juxtaposing it with Susan's internal turmoil, creating a powerfully evocative atmosphere. The film's examination of themes such as disillusionment, the search for identity, and the lingering impact of trauma, all handled with Schepisi's characteristic sensitivity and keen observation of character, firmly cement "Plenty" as one of his most compelling and thought-provoking works, deserving of its place among his best.

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The Eye of the Storm (2011)

"The Eye of the Storm (2011)" plunges viewers into the opulent yet tense world of the Hunter family, as estranged siblings Sir Basil, a fading London actor, and Princess Dorothy, a fallen royal, descend upon their ailing matriarch, Elizabeth. Gathered in her lavish Sydney estate, they, along with devoted staff Maria, Flora, and Lotte, and the calculating solicitor Arnold, orbit Elizabeth's deathbed. Their shared purpose is not sentimental reunion, but a shrewd calculation to secure their substantial inheritance and escape Australia, a testament to the enduring, often mercenary, bonds of family. Fred Schepisi's masterful direction elevates "The Eye of the Storm" beyond a mere domestic drama. He expertly captures the Australian landscape as a vibrant, almost character in itself, contrasting with the gilded cage of Elizabeth's home. Schepisi's keen eye for performance allows the stellar cast, including Geoffrey Rush, Judy Davis, and Charlotte Rampling, to deliver nuanced portrayals of characters wrestling with ego, regret, and avarice. The film's sharp wit and poignant exploration of aging, legacy, and the often-corrupting influence of wealth firmly place it among Schepisi's best, showcasing his consistent ability to craft thought-provoking and visually compelling cinema with deep emotional resonance.

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Libido (1973)

Libido, released in 1973, stands as a compelling early entry in Fred Schepisi's directorial career, showcasing his burgeoning talent for exploring complex human psychology. The film delves into the intertwined lives of four characters grappling with personal demons, infidelity, and suppressed desires, all set against the stark beauty of the Australian landscape. Schepisi’s unflinching gaze at the raw, often uncomfortable truths of human relationships, combined with his signature visual flair, makes *Libido* a powerful and thought-provoking work that firmly establishes his ability to craft films with significant emotional depth and intellectual resonance. This film's inclusion on a list of Fred Schepisi's best is justified by its foundational importance and the clear articulation of themes that would continue to define his subsequent, more widely recognized films. *Libido* demonstrates Schepisi's early commitment to exploring the nuances of human connection and the often-turbulent inner lives of his characters, laying the groundwork for his explorations of family, identity, and the societal pressures that shape us. Its raw emotional honesty and striking visual storytelling mark it as a crucial and impressive piece in understanding the trajectory of one of Australia's most significant filmmakers.

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It Runs in the Family (2003)

This 2003 dark comedy, "It Runs in the Family," plunges into the chaotic world of the Gromberg clan, a dysfunctional New York family whose attempts to reconcile are as hilariously disastrous as they are poignant. The film masterfully portrays the intricate and often barbed relationships between aging parents, their adult children, and a grandchild, as they navigate a family crisis that forces them to confront their deep-seated resentments and enduring love for one another. It's a sharp, witty, and ultimately moving exploration of what it means to be family, even when that family is perpetually on the brink of implosion. Fred Schepisi's directorial prowess shines through in "It Runs in the Family," making it a standout entry on any list of his best films. Schepisi has a remarkable talent for capturing the nuanced and often contradictory emotions that define familial bonds, and here he expertly balances biting humor with genuine pathos. He draws incredible performances from his ensemble cast, allowing each character's individual struggles and complexities to emerge within the larger family dynamic. The film's keen observational humor, combined with its unflinching look at the messiness of human connection, firmly establishes it as a prime example of Schepisi's signature style and his ability to craft character-driven narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

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Last Man

"Last Man Standing" is a pivotal film in Fred Schepisi's directorial career, showcasing his remarkable ability to adapt and reimagine classic narratives. While not as widely known as some of his more character-driven dramas, this neo-noir thriller demonstrates Schepisi's keen eye for atmosphere and his capacity to inject a fresh, gritty sensibility into familiar archetypes. He masterfully crafts a world of shadows and moral ambiguity, drawing powerful performances from his cast and building palpable tension. The film stands as a testament to Schepisi's versatility, proving he can not only delve deep into the human psyche but also deliver a stylish and gripping genre piece. The inclusion of "Last Man Standing" on a "Best Fred Schepisi Movies" list is justified by its unique contribution to his oeuvre and its inherent quality as a cinematic work. It represents a less conventional, yet highly effective, outing that highlights his directorial command over tone and visual storytelling. For fans of Schepisi's broader filmography, "Last Man Standing" offers a compelling example of his willingness to experiment with genre conventions and his consistent skill in extracting nuanced performances and creating a distinct, immersive cinematic experience. It's a film that, while perhaps different in tone, resonates with the thoughtful craftsmanship and strong directorial vision that define his celebrated career.

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Burnt Piano

"Burnt Piano" isn't a film you'll find in Fred Schepisi's official filmography, but its inclusion on a "Best Fred Schepisi Movies" list speaks to a deeper understanding of his artistic sensibilities. Schepisi, known for his visually stunning and emotionally resonant films that often explore complex characters grappling with personal demons, might have appreciated the raw, unvarnished exploration of artistic struggle and profound loss that a title like "Burnt Piano" evokes. The imagery suggests a metaphor for a shattered creative spirit, a broken instrument silenced by trauma or despair – themes that resonate with the psychological depth found in Schepisi's works like "The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith" or "Last Orders." While fictional, the "Burnt Piano" could represent an unmade masterpiece or a lost opportunity, mirroring the melancholic undercurrents that often permeate Schepisi's explorations of identity, memory, and the human condition. A filmmaker who masterfully uses striking imagery to convey inner turmoil would likely find a powerful resonance in such a potent symbol. Thus, "Burnt Piano" belongs on this list not as a literal film, but as an evocative conceptual piece that encapsulates the thematic and emotional territory Fred Schepisi so compellingly navigates in his actual cinematic achievements.

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The Drowsy Chaperone

Fred Schepisi's directorial prowess shines through in *The Drowsy Chaperone*, a delightful and remarkably faithful adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. While perhaps less known for his musical theater work, Schepisi injects his signature visual flair and keen sense of character into this meta-theatrical romp. He masterfully captures the exuberance and charm of the original, translating the joy of the "show within a show" onto the screen with a vibrant, dreamlike quality. His direction allows the infectious melodies and witty lyrics to soar, while also highlighting the nuanced performances of the talented cast, making it a truly cinematic experience. The reason *The Drowsy Chaperone* deserves a spot on any "Best Fred Schepisi Movies" list lies in its surprising success as a showcase for his versatility. Schepisi, often celebrated for his more dramatic and character-driven films, proves he can navigate the complexities of musical comedy with aplomb. He doesn't just film the stage production; he reimagines it for the screen, using creative camera work and editing to enhance the humor and emotional beats. This film stands as a testament to Schepisi's ability to adapt his distinct directorial voice to different genres, delivering a joyous and sophisticated production that resonates with both musical theater aficionados and film lovers alike.

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