Out now on Blu-ray, Australian crime drama Animal Kingdom has already been heaped with praise.
Heres Josephs review of an excellently constructed film… We have become conditioned to American filmmaking as the primary mode of cinema.
For example, theres very little to say about the uniquely British experience of watching a George Clooney film.
This is not just because we share so much history and culture with our American cousins.
Its a more complete cultural osmosis than that.
As a contrast, consider another nation with whom we have strong historical ties.
There are no established guidelines to structure our viewing.
In lieu of any rules, were left with nothing more than tired cliches of barbies on the beach.
For that reason,Animal Kingdommakes for refreshing viewing.
Jake is very much the viewers analogue.
His journey into the heart of the criminal underworld is echoed by our reactions.
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WithAnimal Kingdom,Frecheville makes his big screen debut.
Either by dint of a savvy director or the actors natural intelligence, he is never stretched too far.
Its no problem, as his impassiveness perfectly fits the mould of a grieving 17-year-old.
He executes his function perfectly, but as much credit should go to casting director Kirsty McGregor.
Most of the performing plaudits belong to Jacki Weaver and Guy Pearce.
Weaver plays Janine Cody, the matriarch of the family.
No amount of doting can prevent her obvious wiles from poking out.
He effortlessly morphs into another character for Animal Kingdom and plays an important role.
Theres none of the cultural dissonance inAnimal Kingdomthat sometimes discourages regular movie fans from enjoying foreign cinema.
Australias differences are relatable and the film feels very much like this young nations take on an established genre.
The Corleone family are savage, but they have a dignity drawn from generations of tradition.
Its not until things unravel that the established mafia devolve into violent trial and error.
Without a tradition of civility, the Aussie version starts life at this raw phase.
For that reason,Animal Kingdomis a more dynamic prospect than the established American crime drama.
Sticking close to Jay keeps us grounded.
Without his humanity at the centre of the narrative, it would be no more than well-acted reality TV.
As it is, Michod deserves credit for delivering a tightly constructed and well-managed drama.
Of particular interest is the relationship fostered between the actors playing the four brothers.
The 1080p transfer presents the sort of rich image that has become standard for the Blu-ray experience.
Film:Disc:
you might rent or buyAnimal KingdomatBlockbuster.co.uk.
Rating:
4 out of 5
