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Home / Interviews & Articles / Swimming Upstream |
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This page was last updated on 4th September 2004. Page launched on 4th September 2004. Site launched on 8th February 2004.
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INTERVIEWS & ARTICLES
Swimmin Upstream by Cathy S AllZone4DVD.net, 19th September 2003
Swimming Upstream begins quietly, set in Brisbane in the 1950s. Harold and Dora Fingleton, (Geoffrey Rush and Judy Davis), and their five children - Harold Junior, John, Tony, Ron, and Diane are living a simple life in Queensland. Harold is a complicated man and has his own demons from the past. Tony is a sensitive soul and is scorned by both his father and oldest brother, (Harold Jr), for his gentle nature. It quickly becomes apparant that Tony can do no right in his father's eyes, and Harold Jr, (general all round bully), can do no wrong.
The balance of power in the family changes however, when Harold accompanies his children on one of their frequent trips to the local swimming pool. He soon becomes aware that both Tony and his brother John, (Tim Draxl), are exceptionally fast swimmers. Harold begins to train both children to a competitive standard, fostering resentment in Harold Jr who is now left without the attention of his father.
It is soon clear that whilst both boys are entered in competitions that Harold is only really interested in John's success. Tony's achievements are dismissed, and it isn't long before Harold drives an irreversable wedge between the brothers by openly encouraging John to compete directly against Tony. The film continues to document the attempts of Tony to make his father proud of him, until his eventual departure for America some years later.
It is truly commendable that Tony Fingleton was able to forge ahead with his life and overcome the mental cruelty he endured at the hands of his alcoholic father. What makes Swimming Upstream so special is the outstanding portrayal of the relationship between Tony and Harold, (Jesse Spencer and Geoffrey Rush). Whilst Geoffrey Rush has long been lauded for his acting skills it is clear that Jesse Spencer is destined for far greater things. Add to the mix Judy Davis, splendid in her depiction of Dora Fingleton, loving mother and confused wife, and it is clear that you have a very special film. This story is a must see for anyone that loves to see man's triumph over adversity.
Watch It If You Enjoyed : Antwone Fisher, The Cider House Rules
Verdict : Australian drama at it's best.
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