Mate

Here is a short film from the director of the acclaimed Australian movie, 'Blurred'. Of course I am talking about Evan Clarry and the short film's title is 'MATE'. Filmed in such a clever and unique way, this movie won me over, made me laugh and is a great way to show off what makes Australians, 'Australian'. As part of the 'Blurred' DVD extra features, I highly recommend you spend the time to watch what is a most enjoyable of short movies. MATE, is a story set in Queensland about taking friendship to its limits.

It is no wonder the Evan Clarry has become a director of a major film, as this film has shown me that he has some sort of talent. 'MATE' was directed by Clarry back in 1997 and this film must have taken the fancy of some important figures in the Australian film industry. What I like about Clarry's direction of the film are the different camera angles that he gives us as the audience, a most unique point of view. I especially like the opening sequence of the film, as it shows how far mates will go for each other and that 'mateship' is a very strong bond in this country. The screenplay that Evan wrote for this film was extremely clever and won an A.F.I. award for 'Best Screenplay in a Short Fiction Film'.

The main characters in 'MATE' are Aussie dags, Rod (Damien Garvey) and Dave (Andy McDonnell) who show themselves to be strong friends. They are camping in the middle of the outback, drinking XXXX beers and having a good time. They are doing and saying everything that normal Australians would. Unfortunately, an accident at the campsite causes a big rift at the small Queensland town where the pair lives. The accident has a big affect on Rod and he wants to do as much as he can for his mate, 'Dave'. However one guy that has no time for Rod or Dave is Wayne (Geoff O'Halloran). Wayne is a bit of a toss, and while everyone is in a state of shock after the accident, Wayne is one guy that goes on with life as usual. All these characters and more might be simple on the surface, but once you have watched the film you will understand what makes these characters tick.

MATE has other elements that I like. The Aussie colloquialisms are so funny in the terrific script. Terms such as 'stupid bugger' and the like are thick and fast in the film and give it all the more Australian favour. Another highlight has to be the setting that was used for 'MATE'. The camp site, the use of the river and the small town gave the film an accurate feel and enhanced it all the more. I also like the song used in the closing credits of the film titled 'Characters of the Outback', as I feel it suited the film perfectly.

When you have the chance to see this short Australian film, please oh please, by all means take opportunity with your arms wide open. Rod and Dave show us both why Australians have such a strong bond as that of 'mateship' and that nothing is too great to do for a mate. I felt that Evan Clarry did not do the greatest of jobs with 'Blurred', but this film has in some way vindicated him to me and shown why this director has a career in showbiz.

CMRS gives 'MATE': Two thumbs up!

(I cannot rate this film, as it is not long enough to do so)