8:00 PM, 8th April, 2009
Ra, (Roberts), a married construction supervisor, is having an affair with Carla (van der Boom), who is married to petty crim Smithy (Hayes) and living in a lower middle class Sydney suburb. When an opportunity presents itself for the lovers to get their hands on a pile of cash, Carla sees it as the big chance for them to get away together. The aim is for them to both escape to a new location before Carla's husband finds out that the money is missing and seeks revenge. Reluctantly, Ray agrees and hires arsonist Billy (Edgerton), to do the dirty work; unfortunately the plan they devise quickly starts to unravel and one small glitch leads to a series of bigger glitches and misunderstandings with tragic consequences for all.
The Square is probably a movie you missed at the cinema (going by its box office figures), but don't miss it here as it is one of the best Australian movies of 2008. It is a superbly made thriller, with plot developments and twists that keep you with it all the way.
The Square was nominated for AFI awards in a variety of categories including Best Film, Best Screenplay and Best Direction, but got swamped in the enthusiasm for The Black Balloon and Unfinished Sky. Personally, I felt it was at least robbed of the Best Supporting Actor trophy, as Edgerton's performance as the criminal for hire elevates the role to a great height. The movie will gain a cult following over the next few years, so make sure you can say you saw it here first.
Travis Cragg/Matthew Auckett