Feel-good indigenous film The Sapphires has passed 2010 teen hit Tomorrow When the War Began at the box office and now ranks as Australia's fourteenth most successful local film of all time.
The Hopscotch-distributed film, which has been in cinemas for eight weeks, has grossed more than $13.5 million at cinemas and ranks just behind 2009 drama Mao's Last Dancer (which Hopscotch also released in conjunction with Roadshow).
“The Sapphires is the gift that keeps on giving," Hopscotch Films/Entertainment One managing director Troy Lum said in a statement. "It’s such a pleasure to be involved in this film that keeps breaking records and giving people so much joy. Long may it continue.”
The film has outperformed early expectations as strong word-of-mouth has continued to attract audiences. The Sapphires is set in the late-60s and follows four singers (played by Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy, Shari Sebbens and Miranda Tapsell) from a remote Aboriginal mission, who are discovered and guided by soul-loving manager (Chris O'Dowd).
Producers Rosemary Blight and Kylie du Fresne, both from Goalpost Pictures, also thanked the Australian public and exhibitors who have embraced the film. "We are also delighted that the official soundtrack from Sony Music has almost reached platinum”.
The Sapphires will have its UK premiere at the London Film Festival on October 15 before a wide release on November 7.
Contact this reporter at bswift@www.if.com.au or on Twitter at @bcswift.