Incendiary and Powerful: ‘ONEFOUR: Against All Odds’ Ignites Buzz at SXSW Sydney Premiere

Debuting at the inaugural South by Southwest (SXSW) Sydney, an arts and culture festival that has relocated from its Texas home for the first time, the world premiere of ONEFOUR: Against All Odds was met with a roaring standing ovation. This feature documentary follows a group of Sydney-based Pacific Islanders who turn to recording drill raps to avoid a life of crime. Two years into their meteoric rise, a police task force shuts down their sold-out national tour due to concerns that the group’s music may incite violence. 

If you’re unfamiliar with their story, here’s why the film is set to change perceptions in Australia and ignite a global conversation. 

Capturing an ongoing cultural controversy

The film immerses audiences in a real-world controversy that is still unfolding, providing a timely and relevant look at the evolving face of Australia and the question of who gets to have a voice in it. 

ONEFOUR rap about their observations and experiences, while authorities believe their lyrics may incite violence. 

Hailing from Western Sydney, ONEFOUR find themselves at the center of uncomfortable revelations, show cancellations, and unanswered questions about who gets to decide what music means. 

Director Gabriel Gasparinatos says, “Australia markets this sunkissed image of itself but it's so important to show it's not all like that; there is another side to this country the world is only just starting to see.” 

Focusing on potential, not the past

While the film doesn't shy away from the chequered past of its subjects, it underscores music as a means for them to reclaim their power, provide for their families, and takes viewers on the tumultuous journey that the group continues to navigate today. 

ONEFOUR: Against All Odds offers a holistic look at young musicians and entrepreneurs trying to make a name for themselves in a world where many want to stop them following their dreams. 

Speaking as part of a panel following the film’s premiere, ONEFOUR manager Ricky Simandjuntak said, “When you look and see the potential in people rather than focusing on their mistakes, you may find something beautiful.” 

An introduction to drill rap

Under the vast hip-hop umbrella, there exist numerous sub-genre. Among them is drill rap, a somewhat grittier approach to traditional gangster rap, often describing the harsh realism of artists’ socioeconomically  disadvantaged backgrounds. 

While ONEFOUR: Against All Odds is more than a music documentary, it introduces the audience to the world of drill rap, which is not often shown in mainstream media. Occasionally criticised for its harsh and threatening lyricism, the reality is that the group’s lyrics reflect their lived experiences and offer insights into the environment they are trying to transcend—and these lyrics happen to create some catchy hits. 

Don’t miss ONEFOUR: Against All Odds only on Netflix, premiering on October 26.