99 minutes, Mystery Drama/Thriller, MA15+
In 2012, short film THE WILDING, picked up a few local and international awards, one of which was the Iris Prize (the largest prize for a gay and lesbian short film in the world). Funded by Screen Australia, Film Victoria and MIFF, we now have an extension of the award-winning short film in DOWNRIVER, a moody mystery/drama shot locally in Warrandyte, Victoria. James (Reef Ireland, THE WILDING & TV Series “Puberty Blues”) has just been placed back into the community, after serving time for drowning a child, despite the fact the body was never found. Desperate to uncover the truth and seeking redemption, James embarks upon a dangerous mission to find the missing body and offer some closure to the grieving mother.
First and foremost, a call out to Grant Scicluna (who directed THE WILDING), in his feature film debut, for what is an inclusive entry into arthouse Australian cinema that aims to remove a certain stigma in society. I completely respect what he has set out to achieve in DOWNRIVER. Therefore, it is with genuine disappointment to realise and announce that DOWNRIVER is not the film it could have been. It truly lets down during a plodding and meandering first half as we acquaint past figures now re-appearing in James’ life. Sad to say, Scicluna’s screenplay is overly-occupied by indiscernible supporting characters whom detract from the absolute backbone to the story. Such a shame, for not only does this prevent DOWNRIVER from truly coming into its own, but it often overshadows two superb performances. One from an experienced Kerry Fox as James’ Mother, and the other from the much lesser known Reef Ireland, in what is a truly brave and impressive lead performance. By the time scenes intended to be fraught with suspense belatedly arrive, DOWNRIVER has regrettably, well and truly shot itself in the foot, only managing to limp toward the finish line.
2 out of 5
An adult film for those over 15 only, as per its MA classification. Contains strong use of coarse language, sex scenes, and strong themes.
Review by Moviedoc
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