The Dry

by Robbo

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Posted on 21 August 2021

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Rating -

The Dry is a 2020 Australian mystery drama thriller film directed by Robert Connolly, from a screenplay by Connolly and Harry Cripps, and starring Eric Bana, Genevieve O’Reilly, Keir O’Donnell and John Polson.

The film is based on the 2016 book of the same name by Jane Harper.

The film opens with Federal Agent Aaron Falk (Bana) returning to his home town of Kiewarra after an absence of over 20 years to attend the funeral of his childhood friend Luke (Dingle-Wall).

Luke is accused of murdering his wife and son before turning the gun on himself, yet sparing his baby daughter.

Aaron’s appearance in the town opens old wounds and dredges up the past. As a teenager he was a suspect in the death of his girlfriend and had to leave town due to continued harassment from the townspeople and this harassment continues even though it’s been over 20 years.

Aaron is persuaded to stay and help investigate the deaths of Luke and his family, as Luke’s parents don’t believe he would have carried out such a horrific crime.

Aaron provides assistance to the local police sergeant Greg Raco (O’Donnell) and as they dig deeper they uncover hidden secrets which eventually lead to a suspect. Aaron is made to confront his past and finds some of the townspeople still haven’t forgiven him for the events that occurred over 20 years before.

I really liked this film. It was a little slow to get going but once you get into the investigation you are completely drawn in.

The story is not original, but it does have some nice twists and the sub-plot of the death of Aaron’s girlfriend adds another level. Rather than be welcomed back as a hero he is faced with mistrust and hostility by the people he grew up with.

Eric Bana gives a solid performance really holding the film together and it is refreshing to see Bana play an Australian for once.

Overall this is a competent crime thriller which will keep you guessing right to the end.

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