Review of Love the Beast (2009) by Kinnon P — 08 Jan 2011

It's a really interesting documentary that gives a little more insight into a mans enthusiasm for his car, but really only glosses over the heart of the feelings involved, be it a shared passion with childhood friends, or even observations for the turns his life has taken in hollywood. The passion is still earnest and engaging though, and I imagine a dedicated petrolhead would have a lot more fun with it than myself, I hold my hand up to that. Still the look at australian muscle cars, and Rally Racing is fascinating, and there's some great interior, exterior camera work worthy of Top Gear. Ironically even with Dr Phil in there, it's down to Leno to actually decide to push some buttons in conversation with Bana and challenge him a little, it's a shame he couldn't respond, and given some real depth to the feelings involved, which without are reduced to "boys with toys" posturing.

What could've been a chance to muse on life, youth, friends, love, passion, and in the end grief, isn't really capitalized on, but the film asks some good questions, even if they aren't answered, and get the audience thinking a little none the less. Still, room for improvement, and definitely room for a sequel.