Tackling humanity's biggest question, the meaning of life, $9.99 follows a range of flawed everyday folks in a Sydney apartment building as decidedly bizarre situations arise. Even the supposedly divine character, a homeless guardian angel who cant find his way to heaven is described as a liar with wings. The title of the film references the price of a mail-order booklet series that promises to reveal the answer to existence which is purchased by a down-and-out character called Dave. With a stellar voice cast for such a small production including the talents of Geoffrey Rush, Anthony LaPaglia and Joel Edgerton, the film is a lovingly crafted stop motion exploration of love, sadness, hope and redemption. Pretty heavy subject matter for an animation which features a character that spends his days getting stoned with three imaginary 2ft tall friends. From a story about a little boy forced to save up for an action figure but growing to love his piggy bank instead, to a man whose desire to sleep with a supermodel leaves him at the whim of her bizarre sexual preferences, $9.99 weaves markedly different tales together in a way that is both entertaining and oddly life-affirming. Undeniably arty and even challenging at times, this is a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
A pop culture mad writer from the North East who loves films, television and debating them with whoever will listen.
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