Kenny's 20-Year Legacy: How a Portaloo Plumber Mockumentary Captured Hearts
Two decades ago, brothers Shane and Clayton Jacobson transformed an improvised character into a cinematic phenomenon. Their low-budget mockumentary, Kenny, about a hardworking portaloo plumber, defied expectations to become a box office hit, grossing nearly $8 million. This year marks its 20th anniversary, celebrated with a special screening and Q&A at the Aacta awards festival.
Inspiration from Real-Life 'Dunny Men'
Shane Jacobson, who worked as a lighting technician at shows and festivals, drew inspiration from the toilet-hire workers he encountered, known affectionately as 'dunny men'. He admired their quick wit and resilience, describing them as 'working classy'. Clayton Jacobson, who had cleaned toilets during his film school days, recognized the poignant humour in Shane's impersonations, noting the critical role of sanitation in society.
A Homage to Blue-Collar Australians
The film, initially conceived as a short for festivals, expanded into a feature-length story. It pays tribute to the Jacobsons' father and uncles, who worked in carnivals, abattoirs, and road gangs. Clayton emphasizes that Kenny challenges stereotypes by portraying blue-collar Australians as intelligent and humorous, rather than simple or uneducated. The character Kenny Smyth embodies decency and a strong moral compass, offering a refreshing contrast to grittier depictions of the working class.
Production and Authenticity
Made on a shoestring budget with permission from Splashdown, a real portaloo hire company, Kenny utilized authentic locations like the Melbourne Cup and Calder Park Raceway. Shane took the lead role, while Clayton directed and co-starred as Kenny's nouveau-riche brother. Their family members, including their father Ronald and Clayton's son Jesse, also appeared, adding a personal touch to the film.
Cultural Impact and Audience Resonance
Released during a peak in mockumentary popularity, Kenny stood out for its heartfelt portrayal of everyday heroes. Despite mixed critical reviews, audiences embraced the film, with Shane winning best actor at the AFI awards. The brothers promoted it tirelessly, with Shane staying in character throughout the press tour, bolstered by his temporary job at Splashdown.
Over the years, Kenny has maintained a loyal fanbase, with fans sharing cosplay videos and personal stories. Clayton attributes its enduring appeal to the character's relatability and the universal desire for validation. He reflects that the film resonates because it makes invisible workers feel seen and appreciated.
Legacy and Celebration
Though mockumentaries have waned in popularity since, Kenny remains a beloved part of Australian culture. The anniversary event on the Gold Coast honors its legacy, reminding viewers of the humour and humanity found in unexpected places. The film continues to stream on Netflix in Australia, introducing new generations to its timeless charm.
