Mr. Reliable 1996
"An unbelievable true story about a home-style siege and a BBQ between friends."
Set in the sun-soaked yet socially tense Australia of the 1960s, *Mr. Reliable (1996)* directed by Nadia Tass blends sharp comedy with gritty crime drama, exploring how a quiet life can unravel in a heartbeat.
Director: Nadia Tass
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mr. Reliable (1996) about?
*Mr. Reliable* tells the true story of Wally Mellish, an ex-con trying to live quietly with his girlfriend Beryl, whose life is turned upside down when a police visit escalates into a tense standoff. Trapped inside their home with armed officers outside, Wally inadvertently becomes a media sensation, forcing him to navigate a surreal situation with wit and resilience.
Who directed Mr. Reliable?
*Mr. Reliable* was directed by Nadia Tass, known for blending drama and dark humor in her films.
Who stars in Mr. Reliable?
The film stars Colin Friels as Wally Mellish, Jacqueline McKenzie as Beryl, and Paul Sonkkila in a supporting role.
Is Mr. Reliable (1996) worth watching?
With its sharp blend of crime and comedy, *Mr. Reliable* offers a compelling watch for fans of character-driven dramas with a twist. While not widely rated, its unique premise and engaging performances make it a hidden gem worth discovering.
How long is Mr. Reliable?
*Mr. Reliable* has a runtime of 112 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Mr. Reliable (1996) — The Crime-Comedy That Turned a Quiet Life into a Media Circus
Set in the sun-soaked yet socially tense Australia of the 1960s, *Mr. Reliable (1996)* directed by Nadia Tass blends sharp comedy with gritty crime drama, exploring how a quiet life can unravel in a heartbeat. The story centers on Wally Mellish, a former convict trying to leave his past behind, and his girlfriend Beryl, whose world is upended when an awkward police visit spirals into a tense standoff. What starts as a simple misunderstanding quickly balloons into a media frenzy, with Wally and Beryl trapped inside their own home while armed officers surround them. Through humor, tension, and a touch of absurdity, the film paints a vivid portrait of flawed humanity caught in the glare of public scrutiny.
Directed by Nadia Tass, the film draws strength from Colin Friels' charismatic performance as Wally, alongside Jacqueline McKenzie's emotional depth as Beryl. The blend of crime and comedy gives *Mr. Reliable* a unique flavor, balancing lighthearted moments with the weight of real stakes. Set against a backdrop of mid-century Australian suburbia, the film captures a time when trust was fragile and reputations hung by a thread.