EXPECTATIONS: With an Australian cast that is this strong I expect a lot. I just hope it's not another Underbelly-style criminal glorifying schlock fest.
REALITY: Right from the opening frame of Animal Kingdom you know you are in safe hands. This is really solid.
When J's mother dies he moves in with his grandmother and uncles, who are all criminals. We see how much J's family affects his morals and character as he tries to figure out who he is and where he belongs.
There are not many surprises in the plot, but the performances are all completely solid, the cinematography and pacing is all class, and the tension is palpable. Some films try and have scenes where characters stare at the wall or say one thing and mean another, but few pull off sharing the inner thoughts of their characters as well as this. With just a look these actors inhabit their complex characters extremely effectively.
I'll stop gushing now.
****1/2
No comments:
Post a Comment