Chopper Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A charming psychopath with no impulse control becomes a celebrity because he wrote a book about all the people he hurt, and everyone just eats it up.

🍿 Chopper: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Chopper Read

The film introduces Mark “Chopper” Read, a violent and unpredictable criminal serving time in an Australian prison. He’s portrayed as someone who craves notoriety and respect within the criminal underworld, often using violence as a means to achieve it. Chopper’s actions are driven by paranoia, jealousy, and a constant need to prove himself.

Prison Violence and Betrayal

Inside prison, Chopper engages in frequent violent clashes, escalating tensions with rival gangs. His volatile behavior leads to a brutal attack where his close friend, Jimmy Loughnan, stabs him multiple times, motivated by a bounty placed on Chopper’s head. This betrayal profoundly impacts Chopper, leading to further acts of desperation and self-mutilation.

Life on the Outside

After being released from prison, Chopper attempts to reintegrate into society, but his violent tendencies and paranoia persist. He reconnects with old associates and his former girlfriend, Tanya, while trying to navigate the criminal landscape. His attempts at legitimate work are unsuccessful, leading him back to his old ways and escalating conflicts with former enemies.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Chopper (Eric Bana): A legendary, violent criminal who seeks notoriety and becomes a best-selling author by writing about his life in prison.
• Jimmy Loughnan (Simon Lyndon): Chopper’s friend and cellmate who betrays him, leading to violent consequences and fractured loyalty.
• Neville Bartos (Vince Colosimo): A high-rolling drug dealer associated with Chopper, representing the criminal underworld he inhabits.
• Keithy George (David Field): An inmate and target of Chopper’s violence, highlighting the brutality within the prison system.
• Tanya (Kate Beahan): Chopper’s girlfriend, whose relationship is strained by his criminal lifestyle and paranoia.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Chopper: “Why would I shoot a bloke BANG, then drive him to the bloody car and wizz him off to the hospital at a hundred miles an hour? It defeats the purpose of having shot him in the first place.” – Chopper gives his reasoning on why he wouldn’t help someone he just shot, showcasing his twisted logic.
• Chopper: “I’m just a normal bloke who likes a bit of torture.” – Chopper casually describes himself, encapsulating his disturbing blend of normalcy and brutality.
• Chopper: “Beethoven had his critics too.” – Chopper’s dismissive response to criticism, highlighting his inflated ego and disregard for others’ opinions.

💰Box Office

• Budget: A$5,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $236,185
• Worldwide Gross: $310,466

💥 Chopper Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely blown away by ‘Chopper’! Eric Bana’s performance is magnetic; you can’t take your eyes off him. The scene where he’s being stabbed by his friend is both shocking and strangely funny. It made me uncomfortable but also strangely captivated. Definitely one of the most memorable crime movies I’ve ever seen; I was left thinking about it for days!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of crime dramas and biopics.”
  • “Viewers interested in Australian cinema.”
  • “Those who appreciate strong character studies.”
  • “People who enjoy dark humor and gritty realism.”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence and gore.”
  • “Strong language.”
  • “Drug use.”
  • “Mature themes.”
  • “Disturbing content.”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Eric Bana delivers a career-defining performance as Chopper, capturing the charisma and brutality of the notorious criminal. The film is a stylish and unflinching look at the Australian underworld.
• The Guardian: “Chopper is a darkly humorous and disturbing character study, elevated by Bana’s captivating portrayal. While the plot meanders, the film’s raw energy and violent intensity make it a memorable experience.
• Empire: “Andrew Dominik’s Chopper is a gripping and unsettling film, showcasing Eric Bana’s talent for playing complex and morally ambiguous characters. The film’s gritty realism and unflinching violence make it a must-see for fans of crime dramas.

Audience Reactions

Eric Bana’s performance as Chopper is iconic and unforgettable.: Viewers praise Bana’s incredible acting and the film’s raw, unflinching portrayal of violence.

The movie is disturbingly funny, blending dark humor with brutal realism.: Many appreciate the film’s unique blend of dark humor and violence, making it stand out in the crime genre.

Overall Consensus: Chopper is a critically acclaimed crime drama, primarily praised for Eric Bana’s outstanding performance and its gritty portrayal of the Australian criminal underworld. While some find the plot meandering, the film’s intensity and dark humor resonate with many viewers.

Awards

1. Australian Film Institute Awards (Best Actor)- 2000
2. Australian Film Institute Awards (Best Director)- 2000
3. Australian Film Institute Awards (Best Original Screenplay)- 2000

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Eric Bana spent two days living with Mark Brandon Read to prepare for the role, gaining insight into his mannerisms and personality.”
• “The film is based on Mark ‘Chopper’ Read’s autobiographical book, ‘From the Inside’, which became a bestseller.”
• “Director Andrew Dominik encouraged improvisation on set, allowing for some of the film’s most memorable and darkly humorous moments.”

🖥️ How to Watch Chopper?

As of October 2024, “Chopper” is available for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Check local listings for streaming options in your region. Availability may vary.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Chopper, you might like these similar films:

• Bronson (2008): Both films are biopics of notorious criminals known for violence and time spent in prison, with a focus on their psychology.
• Animal Factory (2000): Focuses on the brutal realities of prison life and the relationships formed within, similar to the prison segments in Chopper.
• A Clockwork Orange (1971): Explores themes of violence, free will, and the nature of good and evil through the eyes of a charismatic yet disturbed criminal.
• The Castle (1997): Other critically acclaimed Australian Film – great for a double feature.

🛒 Chopper Related Products

• Chopper (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): Relive the intense atmosphere with the official soundtrack, featuring tracks from Frankie Laine and more. A must-have for fans wanting to immerse themselves in the film’s world.
• Mark ‘Chopper’ Read: From the Inside (Paperback): The original autobiography that inspired the film. A raw and unfiltered look into the mind of Chopper Read, offering deeper insights into his life and crimes.
• Chopper – Limited Edition Blu-Ray: Experience the movie in high definition with exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, director’s commentary, and deleted scenes. A prized possession for collectors.
• Chopper T-Shirt: Wear your love for the film with a stylish ‘Chopper’ T-shirt. Featuring iconic quotes and imagery from the movie, it’s perfect for fans wanting to show their appreciation.

🎧 Soundtrack

Chopper features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Don’t Fence Me In” – performed by Frankie Laine
• “I Can’t Remember” – performed by The Crystal Set
• “Largo al Factotum” – performed by Gioachino Rossini

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Chopper 1 renee brack interview 1 h264

Ever wondered what the real Chopper Read was like? This interview gives you a glimpse into his mind and backstory. It’s crazy how different (or similar) he is to Eric Bana’s character!

Chopper – Clip – Neville Bartos No Cash Here

Want a taste of the raw intensity of ‘Chopper’? This clip perfectly captures the film’s dark humor and Eric Bana’s incredible performance. Seriously, check it out and tell me you’re not hooked!

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