Streamline

There is a true grit of honesty in Aussie film and it's portral of people and language. This movie has it. A very confident film debut for Tyson Wade Johnston writing and directing. It's true blessing is the rising super star of Levi Miller. Amazing child actor who is growing into an talented actor (see Better Watch Out and American Exit for starters) and will be a superstar.

The life got sucked out of this movie by the downtrodden writing. There was just not much excitement in the movie in any way. It's supposed to be inspiring but my god, you just want to rescue this kid from his life. Awful parents, awful friends, in an awful environment that beats you over the head with bullies and despair. I watched 38 minutes in and had to give up. Just nothing to hope for here, except that prospective viewers read this and skip it. Started this on a whim and couldn't wait to turn it off.

Throughout this film, I had to keep asking myself, "Why bother?" The acting is competent. The production values are adequate for the job. But the script is sadly wanting. The adjectives that come to mind are: predictable, tedious, labored, timid, muddled. I can only hope that the writer meant to do better but felt constrained. If this film is the result of an unconstrained talent, there is much to lament.

Actors and characters with zero personality or emotional connection, makes non engaging viewing. Australia desperately needs to do better, especially with selecting and casting its actors. Are they told to be bland and scripted?

Gritty movie showing a true side of Australian teenage turmoil in combining sport with life. Johnston drew from personal experience both being an Australian and his experience in competitive swimming as a teenager. Levi Miller portrayed the role beautifully and the cast showed a very accurate portrayal of Australian life for many. Loved it.