AVARICE, Australia, 2022. Starring Gillian Alexy, Luke Ford, Alexandra Nell, Priscilla-Anne Jacob, Nick Atkinson, Ryan Panizza. Directed by John V Soto. 88 minutes. Rated M (Mature themes, violence and coarse language).
We don’t often come across a thriller where the chief weapon is an arrow. We are introduced to the archery theme early on, with emphasis on the strong central character, Kate (Alexy). Kate is highly competitive, supported by her former champion father, but, in fact, on edge with family difficulties.
However, Kate will certainly come into her own with her strong bow and powerful arrows, in confronting the villains of the piece.
Meanwhile, her husband, Ash (Ford) is experiencing all kinds of difficulties. He is trying a holiday with Kate to overcome their differences, and to support their rather introverted daughter.
We have already seen a home invasion with some dire consequences. Now Ash and Kate’s holiday house is invaded, Ash abducted and transported to the headquarters where he is to transfer millions of dollars into different accounts.
Hence, the title, Avarice, not only on Ash’s part but on his rivals (there is a twist in the plot) and the thugs and home invaders who are pressurising him. But, as we learn, there are several other deadly sins involved – pride, covetousness, lust.
This is a small budget Australian thriller, filmed in Western Australia, focusing on Perth and the surrounding countryside. The drama is in the abduction, the transfer of the money under pressure, the guard on Kate and her daughter, the background of marital difficulties.
We are waiting, of course, for the climax, and Kate overcoming all odds with her strong bow and those arrows, wondering how strong they are – can they pierced body armour – but, for the intentions of this thriller, they definitely serve their purpose.
Ultimate optimism in the screenplay with a happy ending.
The Backlot Films
Released 8 December