Review of Beautiful Kate (2009) by Eylem E — 12 Jan 2010

This Aussie drama of Rachel Ward's debut directional motion picture is interesting about a family so dysfunctional that you need another word for it.

When Bruce (Bryan Brown) and Ned (Ben Mendelsohn) go head-to-head, you're not just seeing two of Australia's best actors give their all, but a father and son unbotting a lifetime's worth of resentment and explosive rage. The supports are also flawless. As Sally, the youngest Kendall, Rachel Griffiths gives a grounded performance, while Maeve Dermody is excellent as Ned's sulky young fiancee, and Sophie Lowe proves that she's a talent to watch. With muscular direction from Ward (Brown's real-life wife), who adapted the screenplay from Newton Thornburg's American-set novel - this decidedly anti-popcorn movie does ultimately offer redemption and hope. It's an intense, disquieting experience - but a deeply rewarding one.