The Late Movie: Looking for Alibrandi (2000) – Pia Miranda, Anthony LaPaglia

Looking for Alibrandi is a 2000 Australian film directed by Kate Woods from a script by Melina Marchetta based on her 1992 novel of the same name. The film is set in 1990s Sydney, New South Wales and features a cast of Australian actors, including Pia Miranda as Josephine Alibrandi, the film’s main character; Anthony LaPaglia as her father, Michael Andretti, who left her and her mother before her birth; and Kick Gurry as Josie’s love interest, Jacob Coote. The film won the Australian Film Institute Award for Best Film in 2000.

Looking for Alibrandi begins light-heartedly, and conveys Josie’s character through her interactions with friends and family. However, the optimism initially associated with Josie fades as she struggles to cope with her final year of school, including the racist attitude of one girl in particular, Carly Bishop (Leeanna Walsman), the suicide of her crush, John Barton (Matthew Newton), and the meeting with Michael Andretti (Anthony LaPaglia), her absent father, who has only just learned of her existence upon returning to Sydney for work. She is also in continual conflict with her grandmother, Katia Alibrandi (Elena Cotta).

However, these complications are seemingly resolved quickly, in keeping with Josie’s brusque and forthright outlook on life. For example, in response to Carly’s frequent snide remarks, she breaks her tormentor’s nose with a history textbook. It is this drastic act that brings her father back into her life.

Another complication—the suicide of her close friend and unrequited crush, John Barton—tests her resilience. Struggling with her grief, she finds some comfort from Jacob Coote. An apparent ‘bad boy’, he turns out to be a sincere and caring person.

The most significant complication and challenge for Josie, is her rocky relationship with her father. When they finally get to know each other, and recognise themselves in each other, their rift heals, and she can confide in him.