Review of Paper Planes (2014) by Johnny T — 11 Jun 2015

A wholesome, feel good tale of a primary school under-dog who dreams of getting to the world paper plane championships in Japan. It's a super-cheesy film that doesn't always make a lot of sense but its heart is in the right place. In one of the great career gear shifts in recent memory, Melbourne director Robert Connolly, delivers an adorable family film that is uplifting, warm, winning and, most of all, funny. Revealing why he's one of Australia's best contemporary filmmakers, Connolly - known for serious, soulful works like Balibo and The Turning - glides seamlessly into this new family friendly territory. There's a clear formula at play here, but Connolly beautifully colours the template with nicely played humour, a host of memorable characters, and a real emotional edge. Oxenbould's acting is natural and unforced, with the kids' interaction possessing an authenticity that helps center the story. Worthington brings just the right amount of brooding to Jake in the context of the plot, and Wenham's bemusement at his son's precocious competitiveness is an inspired touch. We may know how Paper Planes will land, but that makes its swooping, soaring flight to the finish line no less charming or touching. A winsome feel-good tale that pushes all the right buttons, though seldom gently.

VERDICT: "High-Quality Stuff" - [Positive Reaction] This is a rating to a movie I view as very entertaining and well made, and definitely worth paying the full price at a theatre to see or own on DVD. It is not perfect, but it is definitely excellent... (Films that are rated 3.5 or 4 stars).