Review of Animal Kingdom (2010) by Dana W — 24 Feb 2012

Animal Kingdom is certainly a slow burn, a very deliberate and engrossing slow burn. There is a sense of fear and dread that is expressed by the narrator early in the film that carries until the final credits.

This suspense is maintained by great acting, a great score, engaging and interesting direction and camera work and an overall atmosphere which is the sum of all these components. The writing and direction from first timer David Michod seems like the work of an accomplished veteran, and that isn't even mentioning the performances he gets from his actors, which are incredible and elevate the film beyond any crime flick I've seen recently.

Pope is one of the best villains I've seen in a long time, Mendelsohn's presence as this character is ominous, to say the least. Weaver is similarly excellent in the role of the deranged mother/grandmother, as is newcomer Frecheville as the lead.

All in all, this is the best Australian film since the Proposition.