Snowtown

Australia's infamous 'Bodies in the Barrels' case is given the celluloid treatment with a sobering and thought-provoking adaptation by first-time director Justin Kurzel.

What’s the deal?

James (Lucas Pittaway) is the son of embattled single mother Elizabeth (Louise Harris), living in the squalor of Adelaide's slum outer suburbia. James has been sexually molested by several father figures in his life; most recently by his neighbour. Literally riding to the rescue is charismatic sociopath John Bunting (Daniel Henshall), a self-confessed ‘protector’ of the community who abuses local paedophiles. Bunting soon becomes the lover of Elizabeth and instigates himself into their household. At first, Bunting is a welcome savior but soon reveals himself to be an even bigger predator than those he attempts to destroy.

It’s good!

Technically and narratively, the movie is really good – the direction and script is pacey, the shots are beautifully depressing and the cast is pretty magnificent (particularly when you consider most were literally plucked off the street). First-timer Louise Harris is impressive in the harrowing role of Elizabeth Harvey; Henshall simply is John Bunting, capturing both the boyish jocularity and menacing danger of the killer.

What’s wrong with you?

There will inevitably be comparisons between Snowtown and another recent Australian movie based on a true crime case, Animal Kingdom. Most significantly, both movies have an emotionally numb, young male protagonist helming the story; vigilantism is, to an extent, also a common thread. However, Snowtown is a lot grittier, a lot nastier and leaves a really bitter aftertaste - it is hard and disturbing viewing, and I say this as a seasoned horror/true crime watcher. It’s not that it’s gorno – in fact, only one of the murders is partially depicted – it’s just the even a small peek in the depraved antics of Bunting and Co is enough to realize the full extent of their horrifying behaviour.

Neo-Maxi Zoom Dweeb-ery

I was bothered by the characterization of Troy Youde, whose frankly disgusting actions should have been examined in the context that he was also a victim of molestation. The cycle of abuse perpetuated in this dead-end community and the dual role of victim/abuser played by Jamie, Troy and Bunting could have posed an challenging psychological question. Where does the blame stop? All three men made abhorrent ethical choices - are they all equally measurable or are some ‘more equal than others’? Where can a line be drawn between sadistic pleasure, self-preservation or just sheer stupidity – if any?

Truth?

Not the feel-good family hit of ’11, but thought provoking and a definitely good to see another Aussie film find its feet on the international stage.

Bender Fist Pumps

4/5

#Australiana #Thriller #TrueCrime #Stan