By Randal C. Hill
In “Kangaroo Island,” Hollywood actor Lou Wells (Rebecca Breeds), who once had a promising start in an American soap opera, has hit rock bottom. She’s broke, jobless, and sleeping on her ex-boyfriend’s couch. One day, she receives an airplane ticket from her estranged father in South Australia. He wants Lou to return home, as he has something important—very important—to tell her.
Reluctantly, and dreading the reunion, the prodigal daughter returns to the ruggedly beautiful and wildlife-abundant Kangaroo Island, where she reconnects with her father, Rory (Erik Thomson), and her sister, Freya (Adelaide Clemens). Much has changed, of course, including the fact that Freya is now married to Lou’s once-time love, a charismatic surfer named Ben (Joel Jackson).
Freya, who is devoutly religious, has leased the Wells property to a Christian organization for 80 years—without consulting her father or sister. This throws open wide a door that allows for several intense discussions of faith—faith in God (or a god), faith in what parents have for their offspring, faith in the dreams we may have for our own lives.
Long-buried family issues unfold at a brisk pace as this captivating tale brings us secret upon secret, with scenes hectic but allowing us to understand each important character during the picture’s 110-minute running time.
“Kangaroo Island” is admittedly awash in soap-opera fare that includes betrayal, joy, grief, loss, and unrequited love.
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Well-deserved praise goes to the husband-and-wife team of ex-New Yorkers Timothy David (director) and Sally Gifford (scriptwriter). Their production is a near-perfect balance of drama, mystery and hilarity. (Don’t be surprised about the humor. Such moments are carefully sprinkled throughout the story, and they bring fleeting relief to the heavyweight topics that we are experiencing with the Wellses.)
While the unspoiled island may appear tranquil, a scratch below the surface reveals that human life there is anything but. This release clearly reveals the power of family to do both harm and heal.
“Kangaroo Island,” a sublimely crafted piece of storytelling, opens for a limited theater run April 29. It is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV and Amazon Prime.
