So another movie that puts me in an awkward situation, I believe at the end I will recommend the Rover, but be aware that there is a condition to that.
The Rover is a good film, an incredibly well shot, well acted film that succeeds beautifully in being horribly oppressive and miserable. The Rover is our art entry into the decade of the dystopia films. One of the most inescapable genres at the moment, the dystopia film is only growing as more YA novels are adapted, remakes of iconic films are planned and people muse more and more on the possible global disaster that Global Warming presents.
The Rover depicts the Australian outback on the edge of the complete collapse, although never stated it is shown that the Australian Economy has imploded and to law and order are only just holding on. The Australian out back lends itself well to both the lawless idea of gun slinger as well as the long quiets that often mark an art house film.
The Rover intends to question the value of human life in our society by presenting one where life has lost all value. I believe the film works well to accomplish this aim, although I found the ending, a little out of left field.
There are also a number of clever nods through out the film to the direction it believes Australia is heading. Little things like a strong presence of Chinese characters and writing, although American currency being what is accepted most readily confused me. The film is apparently depicting a global collapse but the faith seems to remain in the American dollar. I feel this would be the first currency to loose faith in after the GFC however it is possible I am missing the point.
If you are an art film lover than go and enjoy the crushing despair and grotesque picture of humanity masking the tiny glimmer of hope.
As for me, well, I am glad I saw it. I enjoy supporting Australian films as well as watching Robert Patterson try and break free from the mould that Twilight may have forever bound him to. However I found the time passed very slowly and I found myself checking my phone more times than I should have.
I'm glad I saw it, however next time I will probably give it a miss.
