THE CUP (REVIEW)
Rated
PG - 106 mins
Stephen Curry, Alice Parkinson, Tom Burlinson, Brendan Gleeson,
Daniel MacPherson, Rodger Corser, Jodi Gordon
The low key but
all enjoyable 'Red Dog' remains the best Australian film so far this year. However,
'The Cup' tries very hard to equal its feel good stature.
The
film begins at a slow cantor before coming around the turn at full pace before
an awe-inspiring lead up across the finish line - just like the annual race that
stops a nation itself on the first Tuesday in November. A big heart beats at the
core of this true story but The Cup is no Phar Lap for a new generation - even
if it is directed by the same veteran auteur, Simon Wincer.
The
Melbourne Cup of 2002 was an emotional even for more reasons than one. Successful
Victorian jockey Damien Oliver is a shining star in a family with a history in
the horse racing game. He accepts an offer from an Irish trainer for a mount on
the international runner in the great race, Media Puzzle. In tragic circumstances,
his brother Jason dies in a track accident only a matter of days before the Melbourne
Cup. Struck with physical and emotional decisions on whether to ride on the big
day or not, Damien is both comforted and kept sane by family and friends. Not
only that, the entire nation pull together to support the jockey in a fighting
spirit as only Australians know how.
Even if you have no interest
in horse racing, this film is worth a look. But certain faults hamper the quality
of production, while clunky dialogue is often amateur at best. Solid interpersonal
story-lines often resort to constant dull close-ups. Awkward flashback sequences
don't help the overwhelming cheesiness, not to mention 'Rocky' type training montages.
Beginning his career as a comedian and remembered fondly in
'The Castle' and as Graham Kennedy in 'The King', Stephen Curry projects boyhood
innocence and perfect dramatic poise as Oliver. Currently cracking audiences up
in 'The Guard', Irish acting legend Brendan Gleeson expertly commands attention
as visiting trainer Dermot Weld. A constant slew of recognisable Australian faces
pop in and out of scenes including the late Bill Hunter in a cameo as track guru
Bart Cummings.
Everyone loves a winner and overall 'The Cup'
will give you that same thrill as a day at the races.
Shane
A. Bassett
