Review of Animal Kingdom (2010) by Hoss R — 01 Dec 2011

This Australian thriller will probably be little seen in the US. It's a shame too because it's very good. The story is about a 17 year old boy whose mother dies of an overdose and he goes to live with his extended family, all of whom are involved in crime and wanted by the armed robbery squad.

It deftly deals with his commitment to them versus the effects on his life and how the police attempt to extricate him from a situation that could ruin him. It's no-frills, matter-of-fact direction and low-key suspense with great acting all around.

Jacki Weaver was Oscar-nominated for her role as the doting but influential matriarch.