Everything in Between

I think the filmmaker might've peaked early coz this little film hits it for six.

It's a small production by normal standards (but big by no-budget standards - some will know what I'm talking about).

It's a perfectly encapsulated tale from the first frame to the last. Remarkable discipline in this day and age, really.

You know it's a work of art when despite not being able to relate to the characters directly - my early adulthood was quite different from our two main characters - what they each embody is universal, elemental, primal.

One character might seemingly "have it all" but instead is entirely adrift, without impetus nor life-spark. The other main character might be considered absolutely adrift in lifestyle but conversely so certain about life's wonders that surround us.

The fusion of spirits between these two unassuming individuals ignites, at the least momentarily, a life-force that mysteriously resonates beyond the closing credits.

The movie Two Hands is a favourite coming-of-age movie of mine. Everything In Between will make good company for it, albeit from a smaller, quieter, but just as interesting corner of the harbour city.

How do you follow up a film like this? I don't think it matters, TBH.

This is the tender and engrossing story of a lonely teenager who has a chance meeting with a young woman with whom he immediately bonds.

It opens with a scene of 20 something Liz having a bad trip. She is a world traveller who has landed in Sydney and is soon seeking medical attention for her skin rash. Meanwhile, depressed 18-year-old student, Jay, is soon standing on a cliff contemplating an end to his privileged but meaningless existence. When the two meet in a hospital waiting room, there is a chemistry that sets this briskly-moving, black comedy in motion.

We meet Jay's jaded socialite parents and this film really takes the piss out of them while the youngsters become a lovely couple. It's a touching story of love, life and death with great performances from Freyja Benjamin debuting as Liz, and from Jordan Dulieu as Jay.

This film shows so much talent from the writing and direction of Nadi Sha to the stylish production. It reminded me a little of the wonderful US film, Dream With The Fishes, in its themes and trajectory. It is an Australian script of uncommon quality that tells an original story that would be especially good for teens & twenty-somethings who are wondering about what is worth living for. I laughed and cried.

Nearly missed this excellent, understated movie. Really enjoy these subtle movies. The movie is an Australian movie in the ball park of Silver Lining Playbook in covering issues related to mental health. Quite well acted and as alluded to the writing and direction is really good. A number of different family and medical issues are covered without ramming the subject matter down your throat like some Hollywood movies. Australian movies when done well like this are the best in the world and this is a heart warming, sometimes funny, sometimes sad movie. Well worth the watch. Excellent movie full of heart.

What a goodie. An Australian film that gets the balance between humour and heartache just right. And that's no small feat. A believable tribute to life that will have you pondering on your own.

Brilliant, and moving with so many lessons and food for thought for us all, we went in not knowing what to expect, came out feeling all the feels. The director, writer, cast and crew's talent are undeniable. Left with a longing for more.

Not only does it shine a spotlight on mental health, it highlights other significant themes like the mental health medical system, navigating parenthood, love, loss, marriage, privilege, spirituality, science, and a glimpse into ancient customs and traditions.

Will watch again to take in all the finer details and subtle messages. Beautifully crafted.