Don't Read This on a Plane

Don't Read This on a Plane is a uniquely engrossing comedy-drama film that was released in 2020. It is meticulously crafted by writer and director Stuart McBratney, and is marked by an excellent ensemble cast led by Sophie Desmarais, Susanna Dekker, and seasoned German actress Hildegard Schroedter. Filled with humorous moments and richly textured characters, this Australian production offers a deep-dive into the mind of an audacious author and her life-altering experiences as she embarks on a pan-European book tour.

Sophie Desmarais, an actress recognized for her performances in edgy indie and arthouse films, plays the central character, Jovana Fey. Jovana is a provocative author whose specialty is writing about her adventurous sexual exploits in a candid and explicit manner. Her books are both lauded and criticized, earning a unique place in the literary world. Jovana is slated to go on a book tour, which would take her across various European countries to promote her latest work.

As the narrative progresses, the viewers are introduced to Jovana's complex character and the unconventional world she inhabits. The spirited protagonist is deeply passionate about her craft, however, her reception varies greatly. Some readers are captivated by the daring and bold nature of her writing, while others dismiss her books as mere salacity.

Susanna Dekker provides the vital supporting role of Claudia, the amiable and devoted event organizer who accompanies Jovana on the tour. She is, in many ways, the calm to Jovana's storm, helping to mediate her audacious and at times contentious interactions with fans, literary critics, and occasional dissenters.

Hildegard Schroedter, a noteworthy German actress, perfectly encapsulates the role of Ilse, an influential critic with a prudish outlook. Sceptical of Jovana's success and dismissive of her risqué content, Ilse embodies the moral and intellectual struggles that often seep through the world of literature. Her confrontations with Jovana provide some of the underlying tensions that add depth to the narrative while also enhancing the openness of the discussions and conversations that the film encourages.

As Jovana’s journey progresses, she encounters a multitude of characters each of whom carry their personal viewpoints of societal norms, morality, sexuality, freedom of expression and much more. Through these interactions, the film explores various socio-cultural facets that reflect upon the diverse and pluralistic European backdrop against which the narrative is set.

Against the backdrop of beautifully filmed European locales, Don't Read This on a Plane invites the viewers to ponder over the blurred lines between art and obscenity, freedom and licentiousness, literature, and pornography. The synergy between the characters and the evocative landscapes further renders an intense and intriguing cinematic experience for the audience.

One of the unique aspects of Don't Read This on a Plane is its ability to marry thought-provoking themes with humour. The film features a variety of humorous sequences that effortlessly comment on the cultural discrepancies and social norms scattered across different parts of Europe. These inclusions make the film an engaging watch, while never overshadowing the film's major themes or reducing the depth of its core subject matter.

Furthermore, the film distinctly transcends the notion that love and intimacy can be discussed publicly without the burden of tarnishing societal norms and decorum. It also emphasizes the importance of literature as a tool for empowering individuals to express their profound and deepest thoughts.

Many viewers may find the themes controversial. However, the depth and resilience shown by Jovana, combined with the engaged performance of the cast, will likely inspire some contemplation on societal norms, the boundaries of art, and the fascinating journey of a daring author navigating her unique career.

With its brilliant direction, outstanding performances and a thought-provoking narrative, Don't Read This on a Plane is both entertaining and intellectually compelling. It offers an authentic and invigorating cinematic experience, and is definitely a must-watch for those exploring new perspectives in innovative and bold storytelling.