Released back in 1976 this was a landmark New Zealand film, being the first one to be shown on British TV. Unfortunately being a pioneering film it is more than a little dated now. It is almost completely filmed on location and a lot outdoors. This means it suffers from poor sound quality, and a lack of variety in camera angles. Much of the acting especially in the minor roles is rather hammy.
However despite thes drawbacks the movies has many positives. Jamie Higgins is outstanding as Jimmy Sullivan who plays the part with a lot of credibility in what would have been a difficult role. Ivan Beavis as Jimmys old companion Bloody Jack, who Jimmy eventually turns on alsohas credibility. Thematically it is very similar to Neil Jordans "The Butcher Boy"or "Angelas Ashes", it contains a examination of the Catholic Church, Alcoholism, Old Age, Domestic Violence and most importantly growing up. Unfortunately it skips over these issues rather than providing any insight or original thought.
However if you can find a copy of this, it is not a bad movie which is certainly a lot clearer than the Ian Cross novel
