December Boys (C or 2/4 stars)
Australia, 1960's: 4 close-knit orphans, Maps, Misty, Sparks & Spit (Daniel Radcliffe, of Harry Potter ... Lee Cormie, Christian Byers, James Fraser), leave St. Gregory's Orphanage for a holiday by the sea. When rumor gets out that 2 of the seaside residents are thinking of adopting one of the kids, the friendships of this foursome are tested. The sweet moments in 'December Boys', directed by Rod Hardy, are a little too syrupy. The dramatic moments (near the end) are a tad too melodramatic. But there's just enough in this tasteful, but utterly insignificant film to enjoy it as a 100 minute diversion.
St. Gregory's Orphanage: the boys watch younger children get adopted by families and start to realize that their turn may never come to pass. They are called the 'December boys' because they are the 4 orphans who were born in the month of December. Luck comes their way when an extended field trip to the shore happens upon them. Gone will be the arid desert (that they've only known). Now, a turquoise sea, and friendly residents await. After getting acquainted with the folks, Maps, the eldest, starts a little summer fling with a girl named Lucy. She's more sexually advanced than him, so some true summer lovin' may transpire.
Meanwhile, the rest of the boys are in deep competition to be adopted by a bizarre, but seemingly loving couple. The growing fear(s) of rejection overcome the foursome. Little did they know that they'd get life-affirming lessons in life & death, sickness & health, religious importance, family, love, & lasting friendships. Bonds become rivalries; but then that doubles back. Life goes on. And all 4 boys/men experience an eye-opening summer that they'll never, ever forget.
The 1st thing that stands out in this film is its beautiful photography. The Australian outback & seashore is highlighted immaculately, here. It's basically the 'star' of the film. Watching the kids frolic around the Aussie countryside is refreshing to the eye; and to the memory of those who recall a similar childhood/existence. Away from his Harry Potter role, Daniel Radcliffe is quite natural here; and he delivers a convincing Aussie accent, as well. 'December Boys' captures the fleeting discoveries of youth. There's nothing groundbreaking in the plot; it's as plain & straightforward as they come. So, that's its basic downfall. It's poignant, sometimes funny, often bittersweet, & somewhat nostalgic. But it lacks any cinematic tension. Simply, it's a handsome, respectful film that plods too often.
St. Gregory's Orphanage: the boys watch younger children get adopted by families and start to realize that their turn may never come to pass. They are called the 'December boys' because they are the 4 orphans who were born in the month of December. Luck comes their way when an extended field trip to the shore happens upon them. Gone will be the arid desert (that they've only known). Now, a turquoise sea, and friendly residents await. After getting acquainted with the folks, Maps, the eldest, starts a little summer fling with a girl named Lucy. She's more sexually advanced than him, so some true summer lovin' may transpire.
Meanwhile, the rest of the boys are in deep competition to be adopted by a bizarre, but seemingly loving couple. The growing fear(s) of rejection overcome the foursome. Little did they know that they'd get life-affirming lessons in life & death, sickness & health, religious importance, family, love, & lasting friendships. Bonds become rivalries; but then that doubles back. Life goes on. And all 4 boys/men experience an eye-opening summer that they'll never, ever forget.
The 1st thing that stands out in this film is its beautiful photography. The Australian outback & seashore is highlighted immaculately, here. It's basically the 'star' of the film. Watching the kids frolic around the Aussie countryside is refreshing to the eye; and to the memory of those who recall a similar childhood/existence. Away from his Harry Potter role, Daniel Radcliffe is quite natural here; and he delivers a convincing Aussie accent, as well. 'December Boys' captures the fleeting discoveries of youth. There's nothing groundbreaking in the plot; it's as plain & straightforward as they come. So, that's its basic downfall. It's poignant, sometimes funny, often bittersweet, & somewhat nostalgic. But it lacks any cinematic tension. Simply, it's a handsome, respectful film that plods too often.