The film, set primarily in 1907, has been described as "a time-travelling satire".[1] The Adelaide Film Festival program described it as "a black and white, silent comedy shot with a hand-cranked camera and brimming with romance, action and especially, slapstick comedy".[2] Its score was composed by Graham Tardif. It is also notable for a cameo appearance by the South Australian Premier, Mike Rann, playing the 2007 Prime Minister.
Plot
The story focuses on Dr Plonk, a scientist and inventor who, in 1907, determines that the world will end in 101 years. However, he is ridiculed for his beliefs and so invents a time machine in order to collect evidence from the future to prove his case. But each visit he makes to 2007 only causes him more problems, and he eventually becomes a wanted man...
De Heer was inspired to make the film after discovering old raw film stock, which prompted him to make a silent movie.[3]
Release
Dr. Plonk was distributed in Australia by Palace Films.
Reception
Box office
Dr. Plonk grossed $83,450 at the box office in Australia.[4]
Critical response
This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (October 2020)
Urban Cinefile Critics gave a positive review; "Beyond its novelty value, Dr Plonk is fresh and funny, wacky and outlandish as it combines slapstick, situation comedy and an audacious premise."[citation needed]
![[icon]](File:Wiki_letter_w_cropped.svg){kind=small}
