This quite well-made film fails somewhat because the main character, Nick Cutler, played by Alan Dukes, is too arrogant and dysfunctional to feel sorry for as his life spins out of control.

Though the film is well made, and acted, the main character spends most of the movie doing awful, selfish things which hurt others and get him into further trouble. Most of the times these things are not really funny, but just awful. It's a morality tale of sorts, but there's not enough to make us care about Nick, and to hope he gets it together. He's a bit of an arsehole and deserves what he gets.

There are also some other problems. Why does he hang out in a strip bar, in such a small town? Why not a normal bar? Is he turned on by the pole dancers, or is the strip bar included to excite the audience. This common device bugs me. Why does the young teacher sleep with him after a couple of drinks? This is not really believable, but a continuation of the movie fantasy that older guys can get pretty young women.

That said, I liked many of the performances, and the Blue Mountains setting was well-filmed. I wanted to like it, and the ending made up a little for the pain we went through but it was too abrupt and not well enough explained.

The advertising fir this film was completely different to the film.

A film I wasted my time watching.

Such a shame, all the hype that it had, but never delivered.

This film got nominated at the Australian Academy, really? WHY? There are some good moments and its shot very well. But the main actor Alan Dukes gets into situations with women which anyone will tell you is highly unlikely with this type of character. I found it hard to sit through, it wasn't compelling or engaging at all. I loved the actress playing the police officer, so credit to her. Airlee Dodds by far was the most interesting character and she's got a bright future. There is nothing special here, no standout. But I also liked the African guy too. Sorry but dont waste your time. Go and see a real Aussie film like Lion or 1%