🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Gregor Jordan
- Genre: Crime, Comedy, Thriller
- Release year: 1999
- Runtime (length): 1h 43min
- IMDb rating: 7.1/10 (15K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: N/A
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
Aussie teen Bird gets involved with gangsters, loses money, and runs around Sydney trying not to die, mostly because he wants to impress a girl, because, you know, priorities.
🍿 Two Hands: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Jimmy’s Dilemma
Jimmy (Heath Ledger), a nineteen-year-old with aspirations beyond his current job, is given a seemingly simple task by local gangster Pando (Bryan Brown): deliver $10,000. However, things quickly go wrong when the money is stolen while Jimmy is at Bondi Beach, leaving him indebted to a dangerous man. His brother, killed by Pando, narrates Jimmy’s story of crime.

On the Run
Now on the run from Pando and his crew, Jimmy desperately tries to find a way to repay his debt. He meets Alex (Rose Byrne), a country girl visiting the city, and a romance blossoms amidst the chaos. Two street kids find the stolen cash and embark on a wild shopping spree, their actions unknowingly intertwined with Jimmy’s fate. A bank robbery seems like the most promising way out of the problem.

Confrontation
Jimmy gets cornered. With Pando closing in, a showdown becomes inevitable. With the help of friends, Jimmy navigates the dangers of Sydney’s underworld, trying to protect himself and Alex. The climax has elements of suspense, violence, and dark humor, typical of the movie’s tone.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Jimmy (Heath Ledger): A naive 19-year-old who gets into trouble with a local gangster after losing money he was entrusted to deliver.
- Pando (Bryan Brown): The local gangster who is both menacing and surprisingly domestic, holding Jimmy accountable for the lost money.
- Alex (Rose Byrne): A country girl who becomes Jimmy’s love interest and provides a sense of innocence amidst the criminal activity.
- Acko (David Field): One of Pando’s henchmen, portrayed as both evil and comical.
- The Man (Steven Vidler): Jimmy’s deceased brother, who acts as a narrator and somewhat of a guardian angel.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Jimmy: “You giving me a shotty?” – Jimmy asks this when he is given a shotgun, showcasing his naivete in the criminal world.
- Wozza: “Yeah, shotties are good mate.” – Wozza responds enthusiastically, highlighting the casual acceptance of violence.
- Pando: “Pando knows mate, Pando knows” – This line signifies Pando’s all-knowing, ominous presence and control over the situation.
💰Box Office
- Budget: N/A
- Domestic Gross: N/A
- Worldwide Gross: $1,209
💥 Two Hands Reviews
Personal Review
I absolutely loved Two Hands! The blend of crime and humor was perfect. Heath Ledger was amazing, and the quirky characters made it so memorable. I particularly loved the scene where Bird tries to explain everything to the police – pure genius! It’s the kind of movie that sticks with you long after you’ve seen it.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of Quentin Tarantino and Guy Ritchie films.”
- “Viewers interested in Australian cinema and culture.”
- “Those who enjoy crime comedies with dark humor.”
- “People who like coming-of-age stories with a criminal twist.”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Violence”
- “Strong language”
- “Drug use”
- “Brief nudity”
Professional Reviews
- Variety: “A smart, funny, and surprisingly tender crime flick that balances dark humor with genuine moments of heart. Heath Ledger shines in an early role, and the supporting cast is equally compelling. While the plot is familiar, the execution is fresh and engaging.
- Empire: “Two Hands delivers a slice of Aussie crime with a quirky edge. Ledger’s charm is undeniable, but the film occasionally struggles to maintain a consistent tone. Still, a worthwhile watch for fans of indie crime dramas.
Audience Reactions
Heath Ledger’s charismatic performance steals the show.: The movie is praised for its unique Australian humor and charming characters.
Overall Consensus: Two Hands is a well-regarded Australian crime comedy praised for its humor, characters, and Heath Ledger’s performance.
Awards
- AACTA Award (Best Original Screenplay)- 1999
- AACTA Award (Best Supporting Actor)- 1999
- Film Critics Circle of Australia Awards (Best Actor)- 1999
- Film Critics Circle of Australia Awards (Best Supporting Actor)- 1999
- Film Critics Circle of Australia Awards (Best Screenplay)- 1999
- Australian Screen Editors (Best Editing in a Feature Film)- 1999
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “The film was Gregor Jordan’s directorial debut.”
- “Two Hands was filmed on location in Sydney, Australia, primarily in Kings Cross and Bondi Beach, contributing to its authentic feel.”
- “The rivalry between Ford and Holden car brands, deeply ingrained in Australian culture, is subtly highlighted by the cars driven by the ‘good guys’ and ‘bad guys’ in the film.”
🖥️ How to Watch Two Hands?
Currently, “Two Hands” is available for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Check your local listings as availability may vary by region. Digital retailers often offer the option to buy or rent, providing flexibility based on your viewing preferences.
🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Two Hands, you might like these similar films:
- Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998): Similar fast-paced crime caper with dark humor and intertwined storylines.
- Pulp Fiction (1994): Features a non-linear narrative, dark humor, and memorable characters in a crime setting.
- Chopper (2000): Another acclaimed Australian crime film exploring the life of a notorious criminal with a dark sense of humor.
- Snatch (2000): British crime comedy with a complex plot involving quirky criminals and unexpected twists.
🛒 Two Hands Related Products
- Two Hands [DVD]: Own the classic Australian crime comedy on DVD. Relive the memorable moments and enjoy the film’s unique blend of humor and suspense.
- Heath Ledger: A Life in Pictures: A beautiful coffee table book celebrating the life and career of Heath Ledger, featuring rare photos and insights into his work, including his role in ‘Two Hands’.
- Sydney, Australia Travel Guide: Plan your own adventure to Sydney with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the iconic landmarks and hidden gems featured in ‘Two Hands’.
- Australian Slang Dictionary: Learn the colourful Australian slang used in the film. Understand iconic phrases like ‘G’day’ and ‘no worries’ to fully immerse yourself in the Aussie culture.
🎧 Soundtrack
Two Hands features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
- “These Days” – performed by Powderfinger
- “End of the World” – performed by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
While not directly based on a specific event, ‘Two Hands’ draws inspiration from the atmosphere and characters found in Sydney’s Kings Cross underworld. The film captures a sense of realism in its portrayal of low-level crime and the people involved.
The title is a reference to Jimmy’s interest in building boats, using his two hands to create something positive. Additionally, it alludes to the choices Jimmy makes – the things he does with his own ‘two hands’ – that lead him down a path of love and crime.
‘Two Hands’ was primarily filmed on location in Sydney, Australia, particularly in the Kings Cross and Bondi Beach areas. These locations provide an authentic backdrop for the film’s depiction of Sydney’s criminal underworld.
🔥 Bonus Content
Jesus mocked on the cross – #crucifixion #crucified #jesus #cross #crucificado #crucifixión
Want to see a raw depiction of one of the most pivotal moments in history? This short clip captures the intense emotion of Jesus’ crucifixion and the mockery he endured. It’s pretty powerful stuff.
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