> REVIEW
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Snowtown (2011)
Based on the shocking true story…
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By Samuel Barnett | November 2011
DIRECTOR: Justin Kurzel
WRITER(s): Justin Kurzel/Shaun Grant
Based upon the notorious case of John Bunting, Justin Kurzel’s exceptionally macabre debut feature delivers one of the most chilling and powerful films of the year.
Set in a grim Adelaide suburb, the story follows sixteen-year-old, Jamie (Lucas Pittaway) living a miserable and detached life of which there seems no escape. After being abused by his next door neighbour, Jamie’s fractured family finds solace in John Bunting (Daniel Henshall), a seemingly warm and charismatic young man. John comfortably assumes the role of father-figure and holds Jamie under his wing, only to soon lead the vulnerable teenager on a dark journey of murder and deceit.
Snowtown explores the darkest ends of human consciousness without restraint or fear. The film depicts Jamie’s view of the world in a hyper naturalistic style; the 90s setting is tangible, oppressive and truly immersive. Enhanced by the dark colour contrast throughout, Adam Arkapaw’s cinematography creates a landscape devoid of positivity and hope.
Snowtown becomes a terrifyingly realistic depiction of a man struggling to control his psychopathic urge. Like a true predator, initially John lingers in the background but as the story progresses the impressionable characters begin to mould around his behaviour through fear and manipulation. Jamie is practically mute throughout the film yet the narrative is shown from his perspective, most poignantly during the more intense and explicit scenes.
Despite the largely inexperienced cast, the performances are utterly convincing throughout, with Daniel Hensall giving what could have been a flat and clichéd character a real sense of humanity and it’s in this aspect that the film truly excels. While Lucas Pittaway’s portrayal of an insular and traumatised Jamie, even with next to no dialogue, oozes character and emotion.
Justin Kurzel shows flashes of promise as he tackles the controversial and hugely damaging issues head on; employing an extremely naturalistic approach, there is no holding back in the depiction of horrific acts. Unflinching and disturbing, yet absolutely captivating.
Script…………………………………………………………………………………………….
Shaun Grant’s screenplay is harsh and uncompromising. Some may be put off by
the presentation of themes and the measured pace. 4
Direction………………………………………………………………………………………..
A sensitive yet utterly explicit film, a balance rarely achieved in cinema.
The gloomy tone perfectly compliments the themes and issues raised within the narrative. 4
Verdict…………………………………………………………………………………………..
A brave and extremely impressive debut from Justin Kurzel, Snowtown is an
intense and narcissistic representation of the most depraved point of the human condition, if you can stomach it you’re in for a treat. 4
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