Locusts (2019)

Locusts: Directed by Heath Davis. With Jessica McNamee, Justin Rosniak, Ben Geurens, Peter Phelps. Two estranged brothers who are reluctantly reunited in their remote hometown at their father’s funeral, become the target of an extortion scam at the hands of a gang of violent local thugs.

“Ryan Black (Ben Geurens) returns to his remote hometown to attend his fatheru0026#39;s funeral. Later he is united with his brother, Nathaniel Black (Nathaniel Dean), who he hasnu0026#39;t seen in quite some time. For Ryan, his fatheru0026#39;s funeral isnu0026#39;t his only concern while in his hometown. Soon the two brothers are threatened and bribed by a group of ruthless thugs who are demanding $100,000 in cash.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eRight from the beginning of this film, there is such a sense of mystery in regards to Ryanu0026#39;s past and his relationship with both his brother and his father. The only thing we do understand is that Ryan is not fond of the idea of returning home and appears to have a different lifestyle in the present day when compared to his past life and upbringing. While watching the film it didnu0026#39;t take me long until I was heavily invested in the filmu0026#39;s plot, Ryanu0026#39;s past life and other mysteries. I was simply determined to see how all of this would play out and link together as a story.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003ePerformances here are enjoyable. I found the majority of the actors consistently strong and believable. I also felt many of the key leads performances were gripping at multiple times too.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eVisually this film is pleasing to watch even though my screening was on DVD. There were great close up of characteru0026#39;s faces during tense moments and I also enjoyed the number of aerial shots which not only show off Australian landscapes but are visually cool (or maybe I just liked the cars that were used in this film too). The filmu0026#39;s soundtrack is a blast and right selections have been made. I found myself tapping my foot along with the majority of the songs and generally enjoying the film that comes with it.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eOverall, Locusts is a very satisfying Australian film. Itu0026#39;s a simple crime story which is loaded with great performances, twists and thrills. Strong visuals and gripping performances are also a nice bonus. In the end, I found myself invested in this filmu0026#39;s story. This film should be viewed and needs to be supported by fellow movie lovers today. 7.4/10 – Walkden Entertainment”