Locusts

Or the adventures of a tenderfoot in the outback. I expected far more from this Aussie film. Far more. At first, I thought it would be some kind of STRAW DOGS scheme, at least more or less, where a well educated man from the big city fighting against local rednecks. Actually, it is, but not as I imagined. We can however appreciate the character, from the typical soft tenderfoot to a tougher one But it is not Dustin Hoffman in STRAW DOGS, nor Jack Lemmon in COWBOY. That remains a good thriller drama, very well acted, well made, but with a predictable and run of the mill ending. Most of the film is saved by the magnificent settings, the Australian landscape is always the main, lead character, the trademark of Australian film industry.

Ryan Black (Ben Geurens) returns to his remote hometown to attend his father's funeral. Later he is united with his brother, Nathaniel Black (Nathaniel Dean), who he hasn't seen in quite some time. For Ryan, his father's funeral isn't his only concern while in his hometown. Soon the two brothers are threatened and bribed by a group of ruthless thugs who are demanding $100,000 in cash.

Right from the beginning of this film, there is such a sense of mystery in regards to Ryan's past and his relationship with both his brother and his father. The only thing we do understand is that Ryan is not fond of the idea of returning home and appears to have a different lifestyle in the present day when compared to his past life and upbringing. While watching the film it didn't take me long until I was heavily invested in the film's plot, Ryan's past life and other mysteries. I was simply determined to see how all of this would play out and link together as a story.

Performances here are enjoyable. I found the majority of the actors consistently strong and believable. I also felt many of the key leads performances were gripping at multiple times too.

Visually this film is pleasing to watch even though my screening was on DVD. There were great close up of character's faces during tense moments and I also enjoyed the number of aerial shots which not only show off Australian landscapes but are visually cool (or maybe I just liked the cars that were used in this film too). The film's soundtrack is a blast and right selections have been made. I found myself tapping my foot along with the majority of the songs and generally enjoying the film that comes with it.

Overall, Locusts is a very satisfying Australian film. It's a simple crime story which is loaded with great performances, twists and thrills. Strong visuals and gripping performances are also a nice bonus. In the end, I found myself invested in this film's story. This film should be viewed and needs to be supported by fellow movie lovers today. 7.4/10 - Walkden Entertainment

Glad I hung in there from the slow start. Well worth it. Well done my Aussie cousins.

Fantastic Aussie crime thriller with Jess McNamee and Ben Geurens as a fish out of water who finds himself up to his neck in crack dealers and hustlers in a rundown mining town. Not exactly an advertisement for Australian tourism, but a dark dusty suspenseful take on the age old city-boy-lost-in-the-outback story.

We need more Aussie films like this!

Go back to the 70s and Australian film making, This movie in line with those. The scenery is fantastic it's pretty much true to Broken Hill, I should know because I live there. As for the movie it's typically slow and not much going on but it is what it is, watch it for for it is.