35mm Return Home (1990)

When Going Back Is the Best Way Forward

A loving ode to suburban Australian life, Return Home is the rare film that realistically potrays the struggle of labourers to hold on to their livelihoods. This charming feature benefits greatly from top-notch performances by Ben Mendelsohn and Frankie J Holden, as well as director Ray Argall's delicately layered script.

After his divorce, Noel McKenzie (Dennis Coard) returns to Adelaide, where he grew up, to take stock. He is bored with his high-powered job in insurance, but unsure if he can return to the life that sustains his brother Steve (Frankie J Holden). He and his wife Judy (Micki Camilleri) are struggling to keep a small suburban garage going, with the help of an apprentice, Gary (Ben Mendelsohn). As the four characters become reacquainted, each must consider the future.

Rating

M

Cast

Dennis Coard, Frankie J. Holden, Ben Mendelsohn

Director

Ray Argall