The View From Greenhaven

by Annette Basile | October 13, 2008 17:25 | Edited October 13, 2008 17:27

”… will make its way into your heart.”

Dash (Chris Haywood) is a grumpy retired man who's been in a miserable mood for over thirty years, despite living in a picturesque Australian coastal town. He'd rather escape into his garden shed sanctuary than spend time with his long-suffering wife, Dot (a lovely Wendy Hughes). When daughter Kate (Susan Prior) gives the couple an anniversary gift of a train trip to a mystery destination, their marital problems truly surface.

Haywood and Hughes once played family off-screen, and they bring realism and warmth to this comedy-drama. Haywood in particular is subtly powerful (and frequently funny) as Dash, and in many ways his character represents the iconic Aussie male - he may be the bloke next door, but he's no stereotype. Other members of the supporting cast - particularly Steve Bisley and John Gregg as the town's laidback mechanics - are wonderful.

The film comes from neophyte writer/directors, brothers Simon and Kenn MacRae. The View From Greenhaven is the result of cable channel Movie Extra's 2006 Project Greenlight competition (where the winning scriptwriter gets the budget to make their film), and it's no mystery why The View From Greenhaven, with its natural dialogue and keenly observed characters, impressed the judges. The MacRaes, who have an instinct for interesting camera angles and well framed shots, always keep their eye on the story. There are small criticisms, which can't be mentioned without heading into spoiler territory, and a couple of the minor characters are writ too large.

The View From Greenhaven is about dealing with life's battle wounds. It's not designed to leave audiences rolling in the aisles, but it will put a smile on your face and make its way into your heart. There's room for improvement, but the MacRaes' filmmaking future is looking as good as the view from Greenhaven.