The Rooster

"The Rooster," starring Hugo Weaving and directed by Mark Winter, is a cinematic gem that I was lucky enough to see it at MIFF. Hugo Weaving's performance is exceptional. He effortlessly embodies the complex character, bringing depth and authenticity to every scene. Mark Winter's direction is a revelation. He masterfully navigates the narrative, creating an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The pacing is spot-on, and Winter's ability to capture the essence of each moment is truly remarkable. His visual style adds an extra layer of depth to the film, making it a visual treat.

The Rooster's screenplay is equally impressive. It weaves a compelling story filled with unexpected twists and turns, making it impossible to predict the outcome. The dialogues are sharp and thought-provoking, adding layers of complexity to the characters and their motivations. The cinematography was also a real standout for me!

Going in I had no real idea what to expect as I avoided reading the reviews and I will watch any movie that Hugo Weaving is part of as he has rarely disappointed me, this was no exception.

A rather depressing and slow unusual movie that most will not get or like. Being very slow you really need to watch the whole movie to get anything from it at all.

I would describe this as a man movie and it seems like a realistic take on life. Life serves up some nasty surprises and some really nice surprises, this one gives us a few of both.

I particularly liked the relationship between the two main characters and there were no loose ends with a satisfying ending.

Not a movie to watch if you are depressed.

"The Rooster" is an exquisitely crafted cinematic masterpiece that enthrals viewers with its exceptional performances, particularly the mesmerizing on-screen chemistry between the lead characters. Their interactions convey a depth of emotion that resonates throughout the film, making their journey feel authentic and relatable. The screenplay is artfully intertwined, exploring themes of love, trust, and vulnerability with nuance. Its director executes the vision precisely, utilising stunning cinematography that enhances the narrative. The film bravely and boldly ventures into the complexities of human fragility and apprehension, fearlessly laying bare the intricacies of our shared human experience, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

This is so much more than a mystery. It is a beautifully crafted story about friendship and Hugo Weaving deserves every award going around for an absolutely authentic performance (Phoenix Raie is brilliant too). The background of the story is a man dealing with depression but it is not a sad film - without giving anything away it turns all your expectations on their head. The script is perfect and sparing - at its heart it is a film about male communication, how hard it is and how kindness and trust are so important. I have never seen anything like it and have not stopped thinking about it since I saw it two nights ago.

I honestly don't get all the naysayers here. Yes, it's a slow movie. Yes, it's depressing. Yes, not much happens in the typical sense. None of that makes this a bad movie. I personally really liked it. I enjoyed watching this unlikely friendship happen at its own abnormal pace. I thought the actors were quite adept at making me believe this. And I also enjoy where this story went and where it ended. I recommend anyone who's OK with this type or cinema that's not meant to have you at the edge of your seat, but rather witness life happen, to give this film an honest try and watch it any way they can. I certainly hope you aren't disappointed.