OneFour: Against All Odds

I was ready to hate this, not being a fan of that style of music and initially it seemed that the doco was essentially glamorising criminals. While they are indeed criminals, they are trying to better their situation and turn their lives around, and trying to give hope to their communities. The style of music lyrically is somewhat controversial, and it's clear that Australian police don't get it. This doco has at least got cooperation and involvement from the police, but presents it in such a way that is in itself unfair - while the police's actions are undoubtedly heavy handed, it is not unfounded since they are dealing with criminals. Bringing the race argument into the discussion also seems unnecessary, and just distracts from the narrative. In the end, it's a compelling story, told well but mostly from one perspective. You can feel a real empathy with the group members, and really hope for them to succeed, whether you like their music or message.

Brilliant, well-structured documentary about racism, retaliation and redemption through music. It should be mandatory viewing for all. It's multi-layered: cultural, social, legal, political, and has generated a lot of discussion with friends. Was a real eye-opener about the boys, the music and the challenges they face. Everyone deserves another chance, to flourish and to make an honest living from doing what they love. So much respect for the resilience the boys have demonstrated. Never give up. Police money would be better spent building bridges between the youth and police - set up music studios in PCYCs, etc - do something positive and constructive for better outcomes all round. Score 11/10.

This is a pretty important doco for all Australians, and also non Australians to see. Amazing insight on these lads growing up in Western Sydney, and into how the Australian police force enforces censorship. Shows a harsh reality of friends growing up in the rougher parts of Australia, then discovering music and using it to tell their stories in a raw form, why? Because that was their reality. Music should make you feel something, and ONEFOUR's absolutely does. But powers that be don't like people expressing themselves if it doesn't conform to their ideals. They were no angels but don't deserve the treatment they have received and continue to receive from NSW police, when they are trying to better their lives and tell their story.

Very interesting, grabbed attention immediately. A great story of an Australian based group of mates trying to tell their story, through drill and rap, of what it's like growing up around such crime and violence. This film is a real big eye-opener on the police attitudes and opinions on Western Sydney and minorities. Shows the tactics and efforts of the police to silence, shut down and intimidate. Young men trying to grow and make better, be better but keep getting pushed down by authority. It also tracks the issue of censorship and discrimination. The self determination of the underdogs is inspiring.

Very interesting look into a music group who represent a community in Australia that are apparently not welcomed by mainstream media, police, or the establishment. If you enjoy contemporary art, music, and culture this is for you. It is also a revealing insight into how far Australia has ventured into empowering Police to infringe upon civil liberties. Shocking. Overall a balanced and well produced documentary. My only wish is that it would be even better if they explored the creative or recording process more - perhaps in the follow up? Recommended viewing, it has got me interested in finding out more.

This documentary is amazing. Personally, I'd seen them live at a festival 2 years ago and didn't know a lot. This was an insight and made me think twice. The message was clear and I think they should be nothing but proud of this. I hope it reaches people and questions their thinking - must watch for sure. You can see the clear divide between people who have remained on the picket fence side of life and the everyday people just trying to make it. Sometimes people forget empathy and the biggest takeaway is that the NSW police are out of touch with reality and need a scapegoat. They should probably start looking towards real issues because one four isn't what they make it out to be.