Fenton Film Series Brings Inspirational Fact-Based Movie, 'The Sapphires' to Community

The Sapphires, an Australian film inspired by a true story, will be shown next week as part of the Fenton Film Series.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Fenton Community and Cultural Center. Before the film at 7 p.m., live entertainment will be provided by some of Fenton’s youngest piano players, MLive reports. Admission is free.

Here’s what filmmakers Hopscotch Films says about the movie, originally released in August 2012:

“The Sapphires is an inspirational tale set in the heady days of the late ‘60s about a quartet of young, talented singers from a remote Aboriginal mission, discovered and guided by a kind-hearted, soul-loving manager. Plucked from obscurity, the four spirited women with powerhouse voices - called The Sapphires - are given the opportunity to entertain American troops in Vietnam. Catapulted onto the world stage as Australia's answer to the Supremes, their journey of discovery offers them not only the chance to show off their musical skills, but find love and togetherness, experience loss and grow as women.

“The Sapphires is an adaptation of the hugely successful Australian stage musical of the same name, and is inspired by the remarkable true story of writer Tony Briggs' mother and three aunts. The four Sapphires are joyfully played by AFI Award winner Deborah Mailman, Australian pop sensation Jessica Mauboy and newcomers Miranda Tapsell and Shari Sebbens. Bridesmaids actor Chris O'Dowd delivers a tour de force comic performance as their manager, that is at once incredibly funny, likeable and genuine.”

The film received a 10-minute standing ovation at the Cannes film Festival.

The Fenton Film Series, now in its third year, shows free, high-quality movies every month at the Fenton Community and Cultural Center, built in 1937 and designed by architechts Eliel and Eero Saaninen.

The series is supported by Fenton Downtown Development Authority, Tanglewood Home Care, LPL financial advisor Patrick Perfitt, Behind Your Design, Southern Lakes Parks & Recreation, and Lockwood of Fenton.