Thomas Mollison, Rhys Wakefield (Home and Away), is at first glance an ordinary 15 year old boy, living in an ordinary Australian town. What differentiates Thomas from his peers, is that his older brother, Charlie, Luke Ford (The Mummy: The Tomb of the Dragon Emperor), is both autistic and has A.D.D.
As if being an army brat is not difficult enough, at each new school and each new acquaintance, Thomas is faced with the task of having to explain, or rather make excuses for his brother’s behavior; for example, Charlie’s strange habit of running into other people’s houses and using their toilets.
Thomas the Caretaker
To add to Thomas’ woes, he is often entrusted with his brother’s guardianship by his working father, Simon, Eric Thomson (Packed to the Rafters) and pregnant mother, Maggie, Toni Collette (Muriel’s Wedding). This responsibility prevents Wakefield’s character from creating and developing any significant bonds with people of his own age; a stimulus he so deeply craves.
Having experienced first hand Charlie’s over-activity, a fellow individualist from Thomas’ Physical Education class, Jackie, Gemma Ward (The Strangers), meets Thomas officially for the first time. Jackie’s compassion and understanding for Thomas’ predicament, allows the two to develop a bond based on friendship and mutual appreciation, which becomes something deeper and more meaningful.
Brothers in Arms
Charlie’s constant antagonizing of his younger brother leads the siblings to clash physically, therefore testing the bond which they shared, despite their clear differences. Thomas finds that in order to love his brother sincerely, he must learn to love unconditionally, and accept his condition.
The Verdict
It seems as though Australia’s most promising films, of late, have had the most low-key of releases. Director Elissa Down’s heartwarming tale of embracing ones family, despite their weaknesses/flaws is one such film which despite its acclaim at the Berlin Film Festival, was due more.
The Australian film industry flies its flag proudly in ‘The Black Balloon’, with a mix of veteran elite talent in Toni Collette and Eric Thomson, and new up-and-comers Gemma Ward and Rhys Wakefield. Of particular mention, Wakefield’s performance is surprising and encouraging of future, perhaps more high-profile roles. Having shed the soap-star stigma to play in a more expertly written production, Rhys Wakefield was captivating and charismatic.
For all you Aussie’s who call yourselves patriots, show loyalty to our growing film industry and rent this one tonight!
4/4 Stars
Cast
- Rhys Wakefield
- Luke Ford
- Toni Collette
- Eric Thomson
- Gemma Ward
Director: Elissa Down
Writer: Elissa Down/Jimmy Jack
Producer: Tristram Miall
Icon Film Distribution (M-97 Minutes)
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