kirkbroadhurst

As I said to a friend after returning from watching this movie, the first half was brilliant and the second half was just a really good psychopath film. Psychopath films can only be so good - they are inevitably predictable and always have me urging the 'victims' to do things. 'Run', 'Hide', 'Stop fumbling with the keys', etc. This was very good for a psychopath film, but it's like a slapstick comedy in that it's a narrow playing field.

Without writing about the Australian qualities of the film too much, or the different viewpoint that I might have as an Australian, it is refreshing to have a non-Hollywood horror film that still provides the shock and gore that is required. Having it so close to home and easy to relate to is a bonus.

I'd recommend the first half of the film to anyone at all. The pleasant climax is the visit to Wolf Creek (crater). After that it's all downhill for them, and maybe some people would want to turn the film off right there. The build-up to this point was brilliant and close to perfect.

Finally, Ned from 'Ned & Stacey' is back! The guy from American Splendour is here, and they both turn in terrific performances with their cliché-laden characters.

Of course, not everyone will identify with these long-time friends. If you're a 'Jack' rather than a 'Miles', then maybe it's not your cup of tea.

Miles is mopey, unenthusiastic, and never comfortable. Yet if you've ever been depressed then you'll remember what it's like when you see Miles trying to pass his time, and his life, quickly.

Much like 'About Schmidt', this story is not taking us anywhere, but it's introducing us to characters, or people, who might remind us of people, times, or places in our own lives.

I expected a more 'straight' comedy. While I did laugh out loud a number of times, I was equally shell shocked with depressiveness of it all at other points.

Not a feel good comedy. Part 'buddy' movie, part romantic drama, part slapstick or boyish comedy. With a couple of bottles of depressing wine thrown in.