Based on a classic 1964 Australian children's book of the same name “Storm Boy” will be adored by every member of the family.
Other than crying over “Old Yeller” when I was a kid, I don't get overly emotional at animal films. Never in a million years would I have guessed I'd sob multiple times through 'a boy and his pelican' story. Watch “Storm Boy” and you'll know what I mean.
Set in Australia, this little film has it all gorgeous scenery, a charming child, family drama, wild animals, scary local rednecks, gunfire, passion about the environment and a happy ending.
Geoffrey Rush plays retired businessman, Michael Kingley, who is called back to his former company by his son-in-law, for a very important vote on an expansive new project. His 17-year-old granddaughter informs him the project would be disastrous for the environment and begs him to put a stop to it.
Her dedication to her cause and rage against her father awaken important childhood memories in Kingley and in recalling them for his granddaughter, he appreciates even more, her impassioned plea and the need to do the right thing. He doesn't have the power to halt the project but just maybe he can come up with something.
We see young Kingley's life play out before us. We learn what tragedy drove his father, locally known as “Hideaway Tom”, to isolate from life and its cruelty and live with his son, as loners on the beach.
Finn Little who plays young Kingley is phenomenal. This role requires the curly-haired 11-year-old to suffer tragic loss, exhilarating joy, confusion, determination and heartbreaking anger. He skillfully does it all.
There are parallels to be drawn between the love the boy feels toward his pelicans and the ardor with which his granddaughter now fights for the environment. And also, how anger, lack of communication and understanding can drive a wedge between a parent and child.
“Storm Boy” is rated PG and runs 1 hour and 39 endearing minutes. It will be screened on Saturday, August 10th as Park City Film's Summer Drive in Movie. Showtime is around 8:45 pm at Prospector Lot K. Check the Park City Film website for additional information. My advice to you is don't miss it and bring tissues. See you at the drive in!
