West of Sunshine

This is a beautiful and sensitively told story of fatherhood, shot with exquisite cinematography, tightly edited and with superb writing. Highly recommended. A wonderful movie.

West of Sunshine's focus is on a father, Jim (played Damian Hill), who is in debt to a powerful man. This powerful man is threatening Damian with consequences if payment is not made by the end of the day. On the same day, it's also Jim's turn to look after his young son and he must work on the road as a local courier driver.

From the start of the film, we learn that Jim can't seem to catch a break. To make matters worse, he makes a very poor decision and turns to gambling to get him out of debt. Sadly the gambling only digs Jim further in debt and adds more problems to his life. The pressure is now on for Jim and while this film focuses on one day of Jim's life, the question is can Jim get out of the problems he has fallen into...

While the film's setting is based all in one day, the film tells its story at a quick and speedy pace. It gets straight to the point and doesn't get bothered with other plot points or give the audience lots of side characters. The key focus here is clearly on Jim as he deals with his struggles and the pressure which have come from making poor life choices. I also personally enjoyed the added concept of fatherhood that was explored here.

While the story of a man owing money to a powerful personage isn't anything new, the film does get a little creative with its overall tone and filming style, especially visually. It's also quite clear that this film has been completely filmed within the city and streets of Australia.

When it comes to performances, I will give praise to Damian Hall, who brings a great performance and energy to the screen. As the viewer, it's simply impossible not to feel for the character. Let's face it- the film reminds the world that no one is perfect, that we've all made mistakes in life and that we all seek second chances wherever possible. By the end of the film, I felt grateful and honoured for having witnessed one of Damian's Hall final performances as an actor. For me personally, I also took a positive meaning from this film which I didn't expect.

Overall, there are many elements to enjoy about this Australian film. It's a short, quick film that keeps on point without any major problems. Sure, the plot isn't anything new or different, but with a pleasing performances in particular from Damian Hill, thankfully there is a freshness in both style and the way the story is told.

6.4/10 Walkden Entertainment

I've never been a huge fan of Australian cinema, with one or two exceptions. I didn't find this movie too bad though. It's an interesting enough story, even if it's one we've seen before - 'deadbeat' dad has his son for the day and makes it really obvious why his ex-wife told him to pack his bags. He also has some nasty types after him for an unpaid debt. I suspect that some of the scenarios played out here may, sadly, be real life situations for some kids, which is tragic.

Fortunately, this movie is just short of 80 minutes long - any longer and it probably would have overstayed its welcome. As it is, it's an interesting enough diversion for an hour or so.

I really enjoyed this movie. Apart from the fact it was a low budget debut film from an unknown Australian director - these factors alone already have my attention - I thought it was a tremendous effort to produce what they did on the limitations of budget and resources. It's a great story and the performances held together nicely. Would love to see more films from the director. Australia is producing a wealth of emerging indie directors lately and I'm very proud to be a part of this new wave of creatives. Congratulations to all on the production.

Clever low(er) budget drama set in the western suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. Having protagonist as a courier was a great device for us and the character's son to see different parts of the multicultural Melbourne. Don't get me wrong, it's fairly tense throughout. When the father has just found his way out of some trouble you're hoping he doesn't do what you think he's gonna do. What does he do? Well, there's a great look captured in slow motion on the face of actor Damian Hill that gives it away. Top supporting cast and disciplined script. Smart cinematography.