Joey (1997)

I wasn't expecting to much from this film on a Sunday afternoon with rain etc. but I was quite surprised. The concept of character saves animals is definitely not original, but I feel the film competes quite well with some of the films that can slip out from Australia. After seeing it once or twice it gets a little tedious, and so do the jokes, even if the film was slightly out of my age group. But the first time I watched it I laughed a little. Even though I had not heard of many actors in the film (if any, given my knowledge on Australian films & TV), they all seemed to be comfortable in their roles. Let's face it, it was never going to be a big successful movie, but I think, given the time, it could definitely help fill up a rainy day.

This movie is reminiscent of the Wonderful World of Disney from the 1970's. It is similar in many ways to "Air Bud" or "Monkey Trouble" but a little bit more on the slapstick side. It has a fairly predictable plot line and some corny lightning shots, but nothing too scary for young kids (and the kangaroos are sort of cute).Young Billy is a bit of an oddball locally because he is very fond of animals (even giant ants). When the obnoxious neighboring farm hires a city slicker to clear the 'roos off their property, one baby kangaroo (Joey) is left behind. Billy then strikes out for Sydney in an attempt to reunite Joey with his parents. Along the way he meets the American Ambassador's daughter and they team up to stop an illegal kangaroo fight. The cops are bumbling, the villains are melodramatic, and the kids are plucky. Just what you'd expect, but a diverting watch nonetheless.

Do not look at the cover, do not read the back, avoid this movie like the plague! The story is horrendous, everytime the kid mentions his dad lightning flickers in the backround, which is extremely fake. It is a pointless, stupid, absurd movie which should of never of been made. Watch this movie solely if you're in the mood for a comedy.

When you look at casting, you probably won't find great names; but this adventure-comedy flows extremely well without the need of great acting performances. The story is simple and it works because it doesn't take place in USA but in Australia, and also because almost everybody is concerned with the amazing australian kangaroos and its environment. There are great shot compositions, and I suppose its natural to expect more from its director's work.