“This is a great example of how to do comedy right.”

The Undateable George Gibbs is a truly hilarious and well crafted comedy that hits on all the right notes. Director Matt Mirams shows a clear understanding and passion for not only filmmaking but also comedy. 

The premise of the film is relatively simple and has been done plenty of times before, but Mirams adds a film noir element to the film which fits in perfectly and helps create a tone that is missed in todays films. You can’t help but sympathise for poor George Gibbs as he tries his best to impress on this blind date. However his inner monologue reminiscent of ‘The Naked Gun’ proves too distracting which leaves his date a little unsure of whether or not this was a good idea. 

Scott Major (Neighbours, Home and Away) is the perfect choice to play George and wouldn’t look out of place in a film from the 50s. His earnestness and slight obliviousness work hand in hand at creating a memorable character that audiences can’t help but root for. This format works for Major and we hope it’s something he does more of in the future. Laila Thaker is glamorous and does well to hold up against Major and is an excellent counterpart to create more awkward comedy that hits every time. 

The production elements all work, from cinematography and colour grade to score and set design. Mirams captures the sub genre effortlessly and lets the audience sit back and enjoy. Many short comedy films fail to deliver on laughs from start to finish, but this is a great example of how to do comedy right. 

— APEX Film Awards