The Gold Coast-set crime caper Gettin’ Square is an underrated gem; one made memorable by a movie-stealing performance from David Wenham as Johnny “Spit” Spitieri, a long-term junkie whose lingo, manner and dress sense made him something of a cult figure. Sam Worthington might have topped the bill in the 2003 Australian film, but it was Wenham who walked off with the AFI Best Actor Award.

A scene from Jonathan Teplitzky’s film Spit, starring David Wenham

Now, more than 20 years later, Wenham, screenwriter Chris Nyst and director Jonathan Teplitzky have reunited for a heartfelt and warmly funny sequel centred on Johnny Spitieri – which just might elevate him into the mainstream pantheon of folk-crime antiheroes alongside Eric Bana’s “Chopper” Read.

The story begins with Johnny attempting to return to Australia on a false passport. He’s been deported from the UK for running a literal Mickey Mouse operation – selling fake Disney toys on street corners.

Despite his best efforts (though he does manage to shoplift a new pair of thongs on the way), Spit is detained...