Watch Number 96

Number 96 is a 1974 comedy film directed by Ted Robinson and written by David Sale, based on the popular TV soap opera of the same name. It features an ensemble of characters, each one having their own storylines, all living in an apartment complex at 96 Maida Vale in Paddington, Sydney. The film opens with a dramatic incident, where a mysterious person is seen entering the apartment complex and heading towards the apartment of the film's protagonist, Vera, played by veteran actress Elke Neidhardt. However, before anything can happen, the film jumps back in time, introducing us to the various residents of the building.

We meet Dorrie and Herb Evans, played by Pat McDonald and Ron Shand, a bickering couple who are constantly getting into silly arguments. There's also Bev Houghton, played by Philippa Baker, a young aspiring model who is always on the lookout for rich guys to support her. Her latest target is elderly neighbor Mr. Leach, played by Gordon McDougall, but things don't go exactly as planned.

We also get to know Les Whittaker, played by Johnny Lockwood, a struggling musician who is trying to make it big with his band. He is in love with his neighbor, Norma, played by Elizabeth Alexander, but she is already married and has several affairs going on at the same time.

The film also tackles serious themes, such as homosexuality, abortion, and racism. Don Finlayson, played by Joe Hasham, is a closeted homosexual who is in love with his neighbor, Arnold Feather, played by Jeff Kevin. Meanwhile, Maggie Cameron, played by Judy Lynne, is a young woman who gets pregnant and decides to have an abortion, despite the disapproval of her Catholic boyfriend.

Although the film has a lot of characters and storylines, it doesn't feel overwhelming or disjointed. The editing is seamless, and the performances from the ensemble cast are uniformly excellent. The film also features some great music, including a catchy theme song by composer Charles Dingus.

One of the film's highlights is a scene where the entire cast gathers for a party, with music and dancing, and all of their storylines converge in a chaotic and hilarious climax. It's a testament to the filmmakers' skill that they were able to juggle so many characters and plotlines and still make it all feel cohesive.

Number 96 is a time capsule of 1970s Australia, with its fashion, music, and social attitudes. It's also a reminder that although times may change, people and their relationships remain the same. The film is a delightful romp that is both funny and poignant, and it's not hard to see why it was such a hit with audiences when it was released. It may be a product of its time, but it still holds up as a well-crafted and entertaining piece of cinema.