The Sum of Us **** (1994, Jack Thompson, Russell Crowe, John Polson, Deborah Kennedy) – Classic Movie Review 726

In a little acting joint tour-de-force, Jack Thompson and Russell Crowe are excellent as Sydney, Australia, father and son Harry and Jeff Mitchell, who are best friend and their love for each other is special. While widowed dad Harry is searching for his Miss Right, his 20something gay son is searching for his Mr Right. Good old Dad tries to play cupid for his son.

The Sum of Us is a highly engaging, oddball Australian movie, concentrating profitably on its central father and son relationship, but with a gay-friendly spirit and strong message of acceptance. Funny throughout, it also really does touch the heart thanks to the fine writing and acting. Thompson is a distinguished and seasoned veteran, so his quality acting is expected, but it’s surprising to find a young and fresh Crowe such a good little actor. Russell Crowe looking young and cute and in a gay role – well, that’s a bit of a surprise now!

Directed by Geoff Burton and Kevin Dowling, it virtually disappeared at the time of its release in 1994, but it can be rediscovered now that Crowe is a big star.

With a screenplay by David Stevens based on his own stage play, it’s a bit static and uncinematic, but, for once, that’s not a problem at all. The script and performances easily carry it. Stevens won the 1994 Australian Film Institute award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

© Derek Winnert 2014 Classic Film Review 726 derekwinnert.com