Chopper

It seems that Chopper doesn’t mind bending the truth to make a good story. It’s apparent that he also wouldn’t mind having a film made about him. It’s likely, if he’s like the Chopper portrayed in the film, that he’ll think the movie a good laugh.

Chopper has written nine books about his exploits and apparently they sell well. He’s out of jail now, reportedly a gentleman farmer novelist in Tasmania, but still you’d have to wonder at the actual and legal courage in making a film about this fellow if he’s even half as nasty and psychotic as he’s portrayed.

Australian film makers are often terrific at making searingly stark films, movies that focus on the glare that surround a subject like Chopper Read, rather than his substance. Sometimes the superficial is what we’re very good at. Perhaps often it’s all we’re inclined to handle. This film doesn’t go much for psychological insights, but we are shown how a malicious thug can be both unpredictable and amusing.

But there’s such a strong stink of self promotion about what we see of Chopper that’s it’s impossible to know what’s really going on. Bana’s Read has a chilling laugh, and a voice that is both a whine and one that commands respect. Who knows if Read really is (or was) like he’s portrayed in the movie.

But there are hints. Read watches a television show about him while he’s in jail with a couple of jailers. They leave, apologetically locking the cell door behind them, and Read is left there, television off, staring at the wall, alone, as he must have done for many years.

And then there’s the front of the man and his ability to entertain. Bana has met Read and cites Read as being very funny. This is a fellow who says that he loves chopping off people’s toes, "it’s great when they pop off" and who accompanies the story with a hearty, life loving grin - if you can believe Bana’s film account.

And why wouldn’t you believe Bana? Eric Bana, who’s mainly known as a Melbourne stand up comic, has enveloped Chopper Read. He put on 14 kilo’s, flashed a gold grin and with steeled, laughing brown eyes invented a character who you won’t forget.

A criminal who blames his nastiness on others and who then laughs it all off and writes best sellers, lying his way to pay checks, is certainly worth making a film about. As long as he doesn’t come after you with those toe lopping bolt cutters.

Special mention should also be given to a terrific performance from Kate Beehan who plays Tania, the prostitute with the hard laugh.

Chopper will be pleased. He’ll sell even more books as a result of Eric Bana’s acting power.