Leon-40

This new film from Bill Bennett is far better than the critics suggest. Not perfect by any means, but still a real typical Aussie film with a spirit we haven't seen since "The Castle". All actors are good in their roles, and it is especially good to see Eric Bana coming back to Australia to make films even though he is now an international superstar. Occassionally Dave O'Neil does not seem as natural as the two other leads, and the narration is at times a little annoying, but overall I had quite a few laughs with this film. Seven out of ten.

I was really impressed by this film, especially the amazing cinematography. Visually, this probably comes only second to "What Dreams May Come". The performances were very good, especially Max Von Sydow and Youki Kudoh. Von Sydow's speech to the jury reminded me of Atticus's (Gregory Peck) in "To Kill A Mockingbird", and was almost just as powerful. The flashback scenes were well used too, Reeve Carney showed promise as young Ishmael. Many criticized this film as too long or too slow, but I found this not to be the case at all. A film like this needed to be this long. The story was very faithful to the book, you certainly do not have to read the book to really enjoy this movie, I didnt until afterwards!! I should mention also, a strong performance by the sometimes wasted Ethan Hawke. Believable, visually impressive, and a great movie!

I thought this movie was fairly entertaining, the performances were good,especially Edward Furlong and Sam Huntington, although the character of Jam's mum was a little overdone. I thought the soundtrack to the movie was good also, it added to the film. I found myself comparing this movie to 'American Pie', due to its physical humour. I was surprised this movie didn't receive that much exposure and publicity. Overall an enjoyable 80 or so minutes at the cinema.