12 Films At Christmas - 9

In amongst all that Star Wars watching it was delightful to come across an unexpected joy ensconced in the television schedules. I have to admit that The Sapphires never touched my consciousness when it was released but I recommend that you watch this if you happen upon it. A highly improbable tale of four Aborigine girls performing American soul to troops in Vietnam under the stewardship of a drunken Irish manager, it has charm and vitality and, without labouring the point, a lot to say about race. At its centre are two top grade performances by Deborah Mailman and Chris O'Dowd. Far worse films have been showered with awards. 7/10.