Review of Tomorrow, When the War Began (2010) by Raj M — 02 Nov 2010

This adaption of the first novel of John Marsden's Tomorrow series weaves a delicately balanced and intricate tale of a band of teenage friends who return from a camping trip in the outback to discover their country invaded by a foreign power.

Written and directed by Hollywood screenwriter royalty Stuart Beattie, this directorial debut pulls some very ambitious punches in its unspoken attempt to bring a harder, almost Mad-Max style edge back to the Australian Film Industry.

Beattie's untried directorial hand certainly is one of the strongest aspects, guiding us on an oddly resonating journey through a fearful future. His handling of both action-driven and charecter-driven moments is deft, assured and strangely moving.

The screenplay is also strong, capitalising on John Marsden's rich tale to its full extend, though occasionally suffering from clunky dialogue.

Leading lady Caitlin Stasey delivers a strong and moving performance. Sadly, most of the Australian cast doesn't measure up, falling behind as she hits the ground running.

Overall, a well-rounded, deftly-directed, well written film that is certain to go down as one of the better novel-adaptions. If the planned sequel is handled with equal maturity and depth, it should catapult this film series to far greater and much more deserving heights.