I wholeheartedly agree with you...but the critics certainly did not. They found it rambling, incoherent, implausible and disconnected. They could not figure out if it was a comedy, a drama or a little of both. I thought the boy who played (and is)an aborigine should have been recognized at a high level at one or more of the many film industry’s tiresome and self-aggrandizing award venues.
I saw it as kind of a throwback to the good old adventue movies of the 50’s and except for one gratuitious use of the “f” word and a mild sex scene, a very good family movie.
That was the other aspect to this film that I enjoyed - it was a great family film. And really, it seems that it is this type of movie that is in demand by so many. It is not surprising how well family films do at the box office - in this case, this film would have had benefit if presents and sold to the public as a family film. I must say, I put this on my “best” list for sure, right there with a movie I recall of two tigers (Two Brothers), but I also see an epic story in this film that makes it a recommendation for all who can appreciate quality content, good production in both artistic format and acting, and in the character set of the actors in the film.
Again, if you have not seen it, I would recommend all at FreeRepublic to check this one out and invite your entire family to view. With the exception of the one “f” word (and I would have said the same to the bastard it was directed at myself) this movie can bring an historical and wonderful story into your home without the need for “R” rated type sex and violence of Hollywood.
I say three cheers to the Aussies on this one.
By the way, we just called into Australia because of the cyclone. Worst in 30 years they say.