I think that it is very difficult for siblings to form a relationship among themselves which is filled with love and trust, and when you have that sort of relationship it is not that easy to sever it. Growing up in Brisbane is the Fingleton family, four boys and a girl. Their father Harold (Rush) is terrifying, controlling and worst of all destructive.
John (Draxyl) and Tony (Spencer) are brilliant swimmers, close brothers and so similar in age that they become strong competitors (oh one more thing, both gorgeous!). Tony and John's story really is the essence of the film and helps us understand their relationship in the 60's where you swam for the love of it.
Growing up poor in Brisbane, being male and in a country where sports dominates is not easy, especially for Tony who reads, plays the piano and has never been good at boxing or football. He has to grow up with a father whose life did not turn out they way he wanted, and who puts pressure on the family unit, especially when he is drunk.
This film is based on a true story and it is often said that the truth is better than fiction. It is simply inspiring what Tony Fingleton managed to achieve growing up like he did (although I won't tell you what and how!).
Sometimes though it is the choices you make that most destroy you and in Judy Davis' case as the mother, it again puts pressure on her children who are trying hard to find their places in the world. The mother Dora is supportive and understanding but Harold makes choices for the boys which divides the family and themselves. There is nothing more heart breaking than seeing how destructive parents can be and how their children naturally respond to this.
Tony Fingleton is not well known as a swimmer in Australia - but swimming itself is. There is a lot of live footage, suspenseful moments, boy clashes and showing such strength of character in Tony, who wants something desperately and wants to get it despite everything. Geoffrey Rush is brilliant as the father, brilliant at being drunk and dominating. For Australia sports stars are real heroes and to be able to learn their stories and accomplishments is very important to us. |
