By: Russ Matthews
A family film incorporating an underdog tale with an adorable mutt as the protagonist and a determined little girl trying to save the family farm, is destined to be a hit.
Runt is an adaptation of Craig Silvey’s beloved best-selling children’s novel that begins in Upson Downs, Australia and concludes at the prestigious Krumpets Dog Show in London. Eleven-year-old Annie Shearer (Lily LaTorre) adopts a stray dog named Runt, and the pair discover unexpected talents at the Agility Course Championships at the local fair. As they raise the funds to go to the world championships during the drought in the community, Annie’s family attempts to keep the farm from the malicious landowner, Earl Robert-Barren (Jack Thompson).
Director John Sheedy taps into the country-stylised characters from Silvey’s book. He delivers an over-the-top family adventure of overcoming life’s obstacles and hoping for rain. A family film that will encourage anyone to cheer for Annie and Runt as they make their way from Australia to the world stage. Every role is a caricature of children’s literature as they portray the small-town community at its best despite being controlled by a few bad seeds. The production value reflects the genre and scale of most Australian family films. It does not distract from the overall experience. Jai Courtney, Lily LaTorre, and Celeste Barber add to the film and look like they are enjoying this family adventure. Matt Day as Fergus Fink feels like he is channelling a character from a low-budget 80s movie, and Jack Thompson proves to be less villainous and more pathetic in his role as Earl Robert-Barren. Runt is a stock-standard family underdog adventure that will appeal to those looking for a heartwarming tale of love, sacrifice and chasing your dreams.
What should parents know about Runt?
If your family loved the book, there is little stopping you from falling in love with the residents of Upson Downs. An unnecessary element is added concerning Grandma Dolly’s (Geneviève Lemon) love life that will fly over the children’s heads. Still, beyond this, there is little to object to in this film. Parents will have the opportunity to chat about the simplicity of country living, the importance of personal sacrifice and the value of family with their children upon leaving the cinema.
“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” – Proverbs 21:3
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” – Exodus 20:12
Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.
All images: Movie publicity
About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.