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Graeme Blundell, Anthony LaPaglia, Ned Manning, Greta Scacchi, Kerry Walker ... see more see more... , Pia Miranda , Elena Cotta

A teenage girl confronts the crises of growing up -- some typical, some unusual -- in this drama. Josie (Pia Miranda) is the 17-year-old daughter of Christina Alibrandi (Greta Scacchi), a single mothe... read more read more...r and member of a large extended family of Sicilian immigrants living in Sydney, Australia. While Josie loves her mother, she's grown weary of her strict family, especially her grandmother Nonna Katia (Elena Cotta). The fact that her relatives still have issues with Christina raising her child out of wedlock hasn't made Josie's life any easier. A good student, Josie has earned a scholarship at a top private school, where she has to deal with Carly (Leeanna Walsman), a racist who often taunts Josie for her Sicilian heritage. Josie is also suffering from the tribulations of teenage romance, as she finds herself attracted to both clean-cut John (Matthew Newton) and working class Jacob (Kick Gurry). Meanwhile, the house is abuzz over a visit from Michael (Anthony LaPaglia), who Josie soon learns is Christina's old flame -- and her father. Looking for Alibrandi was based on a novel for young people by Melina Marchetta, which was a major best-seller in Australia. Marchetta also wrote the screenplay for this film adaptation. ~ Mark Deming, Rovi

Flixster Users

77% liked it

4,602 ratings

Unrated, 1 hr. 42 min.

Directed by: Kate Woods

Release Date: January 1, 2001

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Flixster Reviews (240)


  • July 8, 2007
    Terrific comedy of an Italian-Australian schoolgirl's life with her relationships and fantasties that reminds me from my favourite US TV series' Ally McBeal. Pia Miranda does an excellent performance in this Aussie cult film.
  • October 11, 2007
    I don't even know what to say about this movie.
    It just made me feel...so much.
    & I could really relate.

    Incredible film.
    +
    love the accent! ;)

Critic Reviews


Mark Freeman
July 16, 2001
Mark Freeman, Critical Eye

"a remarkably fresh, energetic celebration of youth and culture."

Andrew Howe
May 22, 2001
Andrew Howe, eFilmCritic.com

It may be a little film, but it speaks from the heart. Full Review

David Stratton
October 6, 2008
David Stratton, Variety

Click to read the article Full Review

Garth Franklin
October 26, 2001
Garth Franklin, Dark Horizons

Click to read the article Full Review

Rich Cline
December 10, 2001
Rich Cline, Shadows on the Wall

Click to read the article Full Review

Urban Cinefile Critics
May 22, 2001
Urban Cinefile Critics, Urban Cinefile

Click to read the article Full Review

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

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Looking for Alibrandi Trivia


  • Which song did not appear on the Looking for Alibrandi soundtrack?   Answer »
  • In the movie Looking For Alibrandi, what are the names of Josie's two best friends?  Answer »
  • Looking For Alibrandi- During the funeral for one of the supporting characters, which U2 song is playing?  Answer »

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