"Runt," directed by John Sheedy, is a heartfelt and often hilarious contemporary Australian family film based on the best-selling novel by Craig Silvey. The film follows the story of eleven-year-old Annie Shearer (played by Lily LaTorre) and her best friend, a stray dog named Runt, as they try to save their family farm in the country town of Upson Downs.
Annie and Runt share an unbreakable bond, with Runt's exceptional speed and acrobatics perfect for herding sheep. However, Annie discovers a more ambitious use for his talents - the Agility Course Championships at the lucrative Krumpets Dog Show in London. Many obstacles stand in their way, including Fergus Fink (Matt Day), an unscrupulous dog handler, Earl Robert-Barren (Jack Thompson), a greedy landowner intent on acquiring the Shearer property, and Runt's strange quirk: he only obeys Annie's commands when nobody else is watching.
To overcome these hurdles, Annie enlists the help of her mother Susie (Celeste Barber), her father Bryan (Jai Courtney), her daredevil brother Max (Jack LaTorre), her widow grandmother Dolly (Genevieve Lemon), and Bernadette Box (Deborah Mailman), a mysterious retired champion. With all eyes on them, Annie and Runt try to beat the odds in this sincere and charming tale of kindness, friendship, tunnels, see-saws, slaloms, and, above all, living your truth.
The performances are strong, particularly from Lily LaTorre, who delivers a charming and endearing portrayal of Annie. Matt Day and Jack Thompson also shine as the antagonists, bringing depth and complexity to their characters. Director John Sheedy effectively builds tension throughout the film, with a heartwarming and often humorous narrative that gradually reveals the challenges and triumphs of Annie and Runt's journey.
The cinematography, by Peter Suschitzky, captures the beauty and charm of rural Australia, with vibrant colors and sharp, detailed images that enhance the film's overall atmosphere. The film's score, composed by Howard Shore, adds to the warmth and emotion, with a rich orchestral score that enhances the dramatic moments.
However, the film's pacing can be uneven, with some scenes feeling rushed and others dragging on. Additionally, the film's portrayal of Runt's abilities can sometimes feel like a stretch of reality, detracting from the overall believability.
Despite its flaws, "Runt" is a heartwarming and entertaining family film that showcases the power of friendship and determination. It is a must-watch for fans of family films and those who appreciate stories that celebrate kindness and living your truth.
Rating: 7/10.
