FILM REVIEW SPIT – A WORTHY FOLLOW-UP TO A CULT CLASSIC

WORDS: Caroline Russo - www.hushhushbix PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

Twenty-three years after the release of the cult classic Australian film Gettin’ Square, the film’s most iconic character, Johnny Spitieri (aka Johnny Spit), returns to the screen—once again played by the brilliant David Wenham.

Reuniting many of the original creatives, SPIT brings back writer Chris Nyst, director Jonathan Teplitzky, producer Trish Lake, cinematographer Garry Phillips, production designer Nicholas McCallum, and hair and makeup designer Tess Natoli. The cast includes David Wenham reprising his beloved role alongside David Roberts, David Field, Helen Thomson, and Gary Sweet.

I was fortunate enough to attend one of the very first screenings of Gettin’ Square all those years ago, and to this day, it remains one of my favorite Australian films. It was a standout indie crime-comedy at a time when financing and releasing independent films was an uphill battle. Written by Gold Coast criminal lawyer Chris Nyst, Gettin’ Square won audiences over with its sharp wit and unforgettable performances—none more so than Wenham’s scene-stealing portrayal of Johnny Spitieri.

For years, Nyst and Teplitzky toyed with the idea of a follow-up focused on Johnny Spit. A first draft was eventually written, and when Wenham received the script, he immediately saw its potential. With creative input from all sides, SPIT was born—a film that not only revives a fan-favorite character but also delivers a fresh, funny, and heartfelt new chapter.

The story follows Johnny Spit, who returns to Australia under a new identity after more than two decades in hiding overseas. Though he sports the same signature mullet (now with a bald spot), skinny jeans, and trusty thongs, trouble finds him instantly. Busted on arrival in Queensland with fake documents, he’s thrown into an immigration detention center, where he bonds with fellow detainees from around the world. From here, the chaos unfolds in true Spitieri fashion, as past foes, crooked cops, and newfound family—including a long-lost sister and nephew—come crashing into his world.

SPIT delivers on every front, blending crime, comedy, and heart with razor-sharp dialogue and impeccable direction by Teplitzky. Filmed almost entirely on the Gold Coast, the film had its Australian premiere at AACTA, where it received a rousing standing ovation. A lively Q&A followed with Wenham, Nyst, Teplitzky, and producer Trish Lake—who was rightfully proud to bring this project to life alongside a dedicated cast and crew.

The team has been touring the film nationally, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. If you haven’t seen Gettin’ Square, do yourself a favor and watch it first—then head straight to the cinema for SPIT. It’s an absolute treat, with Wenham proving once again why Johnny Spit is one of Australian cinema’s most lovable rogues.