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Those shamelessly cute little joeys are the real stars here, and the human cast als wins us over. The engaging Corr is easy to identify with as the dim-witted city slicker finding himself among straight-talking locals. He dives fully into the physical antics, including some kangaroo boxing, and actually looks better after being roughed up by the wildlife. Whiteley and Mailman find nuance in their roles, and adept veterans like House (as the local pub owner), Blair and Morton-Thomas (as Rosie's parents) add some spiky wit along the way.

A bit more faith in the material might have made this a minor classic, because plenty of strong themes swirl around inside the narrative, from the diverse community to the importance of honouring the natural world around us. But the screenplay simplifies these things until they are barely referenced at all, while adding in unnecessary elements that never provide a payoff. Even so, there is plenty here to keep us happily entertained for 107 minutes.

themes, language, violence

25.Jan.26

The engaging Blunck skilfully maintains transparency as the thoughtful Ben, who can't begin to understand why bullies never feel bad about awful things they do. Martin brings vicious charisma to top dog Jake, who delights in his cruelty. Rasmussen is also terrific as the outcast with a hilariously bone-dry sense of humour. His intelligence, and his ability to see the world beyond these boys, is what scares them. And Edgerton is earthy and natural as the friendly coach who really shouldn't be this oblivious.

This is a finely made film, with sleek camerawork that adds an edge to the story's topicality, even as things get seriously gruelling. Cleverly, water polo provides a pointed metaphor with the illegal action hidden under the surface. Jake sneers ironically at Ben, "Don't let what other people think decide who you are." But most intriguing is how the coach offers knowing advice that simply doesn't resonate with Ben, who feels increasingly lost in this situation.

themes, language, violence

23.Dec.25

There isn't much an actor can do in a movie like this; most are merely required to look plucky in between extended sequences in which they're screaming, running and fighting. Sequoyah has charisma as the hero of the piece, as Lucy tenaciously battles her crazed childhood friend, improbably surviving attacks that leave other characters in pools of blood. She has strong chemistry with Hunter and Wyant, and Alexander has fun with the annoying Hannah. But these are all thankless roles.

Somehow, Kotsur manages to maintain a shred of dignity amid the nutty chaos, creating the most vivid character during his relatively brief appearances at the beginning and end. But there's nothing in the script that catches our imagination, leaving us to coldly watch the grisliness. Not that we can clearly see much, because the too-close cinematography and splintered editing frustrate our attempts to engage with what's happening. So despite some mindless thrills, this is ultimately forgettable.

themes, language, violence

15.Jan.26