The Breaker Upperers

About The Breaker Upperers

Explore

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music
• Soundtrack

About

The Breaker Upperers is a 2018 New Zealand comedy film written and directed by Madeleine Sami and Jackie van Beek. The film follows two best friends, Mel and Jen, who run a business breaking up couples for cash. However, their friendship becomes strained when Mel falls for a client who wants to end his long-term relationship. As they navigate their personal and professional lives, Mel and Jen must confront the consequences of their actions and redefine their priorities.

Making / Production

The Breaker Upperers was independently produced in New Zealand. It was co-written and co-directed by Madeleine Sami and Jackie van Beek, who also starred in the film. The production had a limited budget and was shot over a relatively short period of time. Despite the constraints, the film showcases the unique humor and storytelling style of Sami and van Beek.

Actors

• Madeleine Sami - Mel: Sami portrays Mel, one of the main characters and co-founder of the breaker upperer business. She brings a mix of wit and vulnerability to her role, capturing the complexity of Mel's relationship struggles.
• Jackie van Beek - Jen: Van Beek plays Jen, the other co-founder of the business. Her performance balances Jen's tough exterior with moments of insecurity, making her a relatable and comedic character.
• James Rolleston - Jordan: Rolleston portrays Jordan, a young man who hires Mel and Jen to break up with his girlfriend. He brings charm and naivety to the role, creating a memorable dynamic with the two main characters.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Breaker Upperers marks the directorial debuts of Madeleine Sami and Jackie van Beek.
• The film was partly inspired by Sami and van Beek's experiences in the New Zealand comedy scene.
• Several scenes in the film were improvised by the actors, adding spontaneity and humor to the story.

Awards

The Breaker Upperers received widespread critical acclaim for its hilarious and heartfelt storytelling. While it did not win any major awards, it was nominated for Best Film at the New Zealand Film Awards.

Quotes

• "Breaking up is a goldmine!" - Mel
• "We need a special torn-up photo box for the girl who thought her life was over but then she met you." - Jen
• "You're my best friend, but I don't even like you sometimes." - Mel to Jen

Music

The soundtrack of The Breaker Upperers features a mix of popular songs and original compositions. The music complements the comedic tone of the film and enhances the emotional resonance of key scenes.

Soundtrack

• "I Will Survive" - Gloria Gaynor
• "It's Raining Men" - The Weather Girls
• "Thank U, Next" - Ariana Grande
• Original Score by Tom McLeod