A film with a quirky script, beautiful costumes and a cast full of unsung delights are my favourite and this flick has all of this in spades and more. The Dressmaker is a film adaptation of Rosalie Ham’s novel of the same name that has all the charm and wry humour that the Aussies are known and loved for. It is intriguing and full of unexpected moments.

The story focuses on Tilly Dunnage (Kate Winslet), a young woman returns to her hometown determined to solve the mystery of why she was sent away in the first place. Though she left as an unkempt young child, she has returned as a talented and sophisticated dressmaker. Her stylish ways are in stark contrast to the dusty town and drab people of her childhood.

While caring for mentally unwell mother (Judy Davis), Tilly is reunited with an old friend with new feelings, Teddy McSwiney (Liam Hemsworth). As it turns out, Teddy may be the only person in town who does not blame Tilly for the suspicious death of a classmate more than 20 years prior. As Tilly settles into small town life once again the rumors and suspicion begin to swirl around her once more. The closer she gets to the truth of the mystery, the more the town rallies against her.

Tilly experiences a breakthrough with the help of Teddy and it looks as if she may be vindicated but tragedy strikes again and again until Tilly is left with nothing but the truth and a path to vindication that will leave destruction in her wake.

The entire cast of this The Dressmaker is marvelous. Kate Winslet and Judy Davis create a delicious, tension-filled mother/daughter relationship which is a delight to watch unfold onscreen. Winslet also does a magnificent job connecting with Hemsworth. Their chemistry is instant and magnetic. Hugo Weaving fills the role of Sergeant Farrat with an understated elegance that brings a sympathetic humanity to the character that could have so easily become a cliché in less skilled hands.

The visual aspect of this movie is brilliant. The couture fashions of the 1950s are stunning against the plain backdrop of the dreary Australian town that time forgot. Award winning costumer designer, Margot Wilson, drew inspiration from the most prominent fashion houses of the era for Winslets looks while designer Marion Boyce fills out the rest of the cast in memorable creations, in their own right.

The storyline takes many twists and turns that keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. It is clear that this is a film adaptation of a novel as there are several literary plot tricks that are employed throughout. As an avid reader, this quirks of the page on film just make the story more endearing. The characters are written and portrayed with such uncomplicated pureness that you can almost imagine you are reading the novel instead of watching the film. It really is a treat to watch.

The Dressmaker was a box office hit in Australia and for good reason. The performances are brilliant, the costumes memorable and the story is quirky, smart and intriguing. Be sure to add The Dressmaker to your watch list this December!