The best types of stories are about something.
Although mindless escapism may be fun, most don’t have depth to make them
memorable. Those cleverly interweaving a message within its narrative
usually stay longer in audience’s affections. Based on Craig Silvey’s
novel, ‘Jasper Jones’ captures what makes a good story. Using the local
Australian landscape to its advantage, ‘Jasper Jones’ has several layers that
can be enjoyed by all who like uncovering what makes people tick.
In 1969, Charlie Bucktin (Levi Miller) is a young teenager
living in a small Western Australian town. An outsider to his family due
to his introverted ways, he is startled one night when woken by a strange
noise. The cause of the disturbance is Jasper Jones (Aaron McGrath) a
mixed-raced boy needing Charlie’s help. Wanting to solve a mysterious
death, Jasper takes Charlie on a mission that will affect the whole town.
Secrets and deception plague the boys as they learn to face their fears and
grow into men.
‘Jasper Jones’ is a coming of age story without the clichéd
connotations such a term uses. Whilst it follows the formula of Charlie
becoming a more mature person, the film is more than that. It’s about
being an outcast and not being afraid to be different. Settling for the
expected norm isn’t always a good thing – a point well conveyed via Charlie’s
mother, effectively portrayed by Toni Collette. She is part of a strong
ensemble bringing to life a community full of suspicion and prejudices.
Director Rachel Perkins’ successfully develops a good sense
of pace. ‘Jasper Jones’ tells its tale within an appropriate run-time
filled with drama, pathos and gentle humour. That isn’t always an easy
thing to pull off and one she and the screenwriters do with style.
Although primarily aimed at a young teen market, ‘Jasper Jones’ doesn’t talk
down to anyone with its mature tone reflecting the journey Charlie
endures. The rugged scenery and soundtrack also solidify the remoteness
and beauty of Charlie’s surrounds.
It’s always a pleasure seeing an Australian movie crafted
with care. ‘Jasper Jones’ slowly builds its atmospheric story forcing you
to immerse yourself in its small world. Its messages are there for
observant viewers to find with a screenplay ensuring it won’t be quickly
forgotten.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 8
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at movie
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