Is This Is Australia Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2008)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Adventure, Drama, Action, Comedy cinema, the 2008 release of This Is Australia stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Australia is home to some of the best DH riders on the WC circuit today. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Adventure, Drama, Action, Comedy are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Australia is home to some of the best DH riders on the WC circuit today. There are also a slew of new and upcoming rippers that are making a name for themselves on the Australian racing scene. TIA is filmed, edited and produced by Sam Davies and brings you great riding footage and interviews from some of the best Australian racers. Sam gets some 1 on 1 time with the riders as they talk about their fellow competitors and what it really takes to get top spot on the podium. Footage includes riders shredding secret trails that they have build themselves, rider competing at local races, riders training on their moto’s and riders just chillin’ at home, talking about what it’s like to ride/train/live in Australia."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Despite the inherent talent of Nathan Rennie, the performance in This Is Australia feels somewhat constrained by a narrative framework that doesn't fully exploit their range. There are flashes of brilliance, but the overall impact is muted.

The direction by Sam Davies is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 67 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is This Is Australia truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Adventure, Drama, Action, Comedy, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 4.2/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, This Is Australia explores the dichotomy of strength and vulnerability. The 2008 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Sam Davies respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, This Is Australia is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Nathan Rennie or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, This Is Australia is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.