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The Dry (2021)

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4.0
 
4.3 (3)
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Imon Reza
Updated September 13, 2024
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Movie Info

Year Released
Directed by
MPAA Rating
R [Restricted]
Runtime
117 Mins.
Release date
January 1, 2021 (Australia, New Zealand); May 21, 2021 (United States)
Budget (In USD)
Unknown
Revenue (In USD)
$17,424,378

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Movie Overview | The Dry (2021)

Tagline: Where The Truth Lies.

Synopsis

Aaron Falk returns to his drought-stricken hometown to attend a tragic funeral. But his return opens a decades-old wound – the unsolved death of a teenage girl.

The Dry (2021): Unearthing Secrets in a Drought-Stricken Town

In "The Dry," directed by Robert Connolly, the story follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk (played by Eric Bana) as he returns to his drought-ridden hometown in rural Australia to attend the funeral of his childhood friend, Luke. Luke's death is believed to be a murder-suicide, with Luke allegedly killing his wife and son before taking his own life. However, doubts linger in the small community, and Falk's return reopens old wounds and unresolved mysteries.

As Falk investigates the circumstances surrounding Luke's death, he uncovers long-buried secrets and grudges that have festered beneath the surface for years. Haunted by the memory of a teenage girl's death that occurred decades earlier, Falk navigates through the tight-knit community, confronting both the hostility of the townspeople and his own demons along the way.

Through a series of flashbacks, the film reveals the events leading up to the present-day tragedy, painting a picture of simmering tensions and betrayals. Falk's investigation intertwines with his personal history, forcing him to confront painful memories and the choices he made in the past.

As the truth gradually comes to light, Falk finds himself caught in a web of lies and deception, leading to a climactic showdown that will change the lives of everyone involved. "The Dry" is a gripping thriller that explores the complexities of guilt, redemption, and the devastating impact of secrets kept hidden in the harsh Australian outback.

Other Info

Writer
  • Jane Harper (based on the book),
  • Samantha Strauss (additional writing)
Screenplay
  • Harry Cripps,
  • Robert Connolly
Producer
  • Eric Bana,
  • Robert Connolly,
  • Steve Hutensky,
  • Jodi Matterson,
  • Bruna Papandrea

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Editor review

1 review
The Dry: A Parched Landscape Filled With Secrets
(Updated: January 04, 2025)
Overall rating
 
4.0
Entertainment Factor
 
3.0
Story
 
4.0
Actors Performance
 
5.0
Cinematography
 
4.0
Sound Track
 
4.0
The Dry (2021) is a compelling Australian crime drama that simmers beneath the scorching sun. Based on Jane Harper's novel, the film paints a vivid picture of a rural town grappling with drought and the weight of a past tragedy.

Eric Bana delivers a powerful performance as Aaron Falk, a Federal agent who returns to his drought-stricken hometown to attend a funeral. His presence stirs up long-buried secrets as he's unofficially drawn into investigating the apparent murder-suicide of a local family.

The film masterfully builds suspense. The dusty landscape and oppressive heat become characters themselves, reflecting the emotional aridity of the town. As Aaron delves deeper, the line between past and present blurs, revealing a web of suspicion and long-held grudges.

More Than Just a Whodunit: The Dry is not simply a whodunit. It delves into themes of guilt, grief, and the corrosive nature of small-town secrets. The characters are flawed and complex, each burdened by their own past mistakes.

Slow Burn with a Satisfying Payoff: While the film takes its time unraveling the mystery, the slow burn keeps you engaged. The payoff, when it arrives, is both shocking and emotionally resonant.

Some Potential Drawbacks: If you prefer fast-paced action thrillers, The Dry's deliberate pacing might feel slow. Additionally, the film doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of rural life, which might be unsettling for some viewers.

Overall:
The Dry is a captivating crime drama with a strong central performance by Eric Bana. The film's exploration of drought, grief, and the burden of the past creates a unique and thought-provoking atmosphere. While the slow burn might not be for everyone, the film rewards patient viewers with a suspenseful and emotionally satisfying conclusion.

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User reviews

3 reviews
Overall rating
 
4.3
Entertainment Factor
 
4.0(3)
Story
 
4.7(3)
Actors Performance
 
4.3(3)
Cinematography
 
4.3(3)
Sound Track
 
4.3(3)
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An Excellent Thriller
(Updated: January 04, 2025)
Overall rating
 
5.0
Entertainment Factor
 
5.0
Story
 
5.0
Actors Performance
 
5.0
Cinematography
 
5.0
Sound Track
 
5.0
 “Federal Agent Aaron Falk returns to his hometown Kiewarra after an absence of over twenty years to attend the funeral of his childhood friend, Luke, who allegedly killed his wife Karen and child Billy (sparing baby daughter Charlotte) before taking his own life. Luke's parents persuade a reluctant Falk to stay and investigate the circumstances of the crime. Falk and his father left the town 20 years ago to escape harassment when Falk was suspected in the death of his girlfriend. Now he is continuously harassed by the townspeople, though it has been 20 years since the death of 17-year-old Ellie Deacon, a close friend Falk was romantically involved with. With the help of the local sergeant Greg Raco, he begins to look into the events surrounding Luke's death. They discover that the bullets used in the crime were Remingtons while Luke only owned Winchesters.” (Wikipedia)

Eric Bana stars as Aaron Falk and does a fine job as a man tormented by the unsolved death of his childhood girlfriend. Old sins cast long shadows and the town has some unforgiving members of the community. Flashbacks fill the viewer in on the chain of events leading up to the young girl’s death, although the so-called clues that point to Aaron being the culprit are very circumstantial. While Aaron tries to focus on the current investigation and follow the clues, some of which are red herrings, he is still beset with thoughts of what happened 20 years ago.

I am a big fan of Eric Bana, who is an Australian actor. The cast of characters is excellent, an ensemble performance that viewers will enjoy. The story takes place in a small town suffering the effects of an interminable drought, which rubs on everyone’s nerves. It’s a slow burn from a directing angle and the unfolding of events is systematic as clues and motives are revealed. The flashbacks were overused, in my opinion, although necessary. I felt the director could have cut down on the number of scenes that did not add much and slowed the pace somewhat. I could not guess Ellie Deacon’s killer, nor Luke’s killer, and was stunned when the identities were revealed. It’s an excellent whodunnit that proceeds with methodical skill. I really enjoyed this movie, and I am sure Bana fans, as well as mystery murder aficionados, will too. 

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The Dry (2021): A Captivating Thriller That Will Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat
(Updated: January 04, 2025)
Overall rating
 
4.0
Entertainment Factor
 
3.0
Story
 
5.0
Actors Performance
 
4.0
Cinematography
 
4.0
Sound Track
 
4.0
"The Dry" is a gripping Australian crime thriller directed by Robert Connolly and based on the bestselling novel by Jane Harper. Released in 2021, the film takes viewers on a suspenseful journey through a drought-stricken rural town where secrets and mysteries unravel. In this review, we will explore the captivating elements of "The Dry" and why it is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

The Dry: A Synopsis

Set in the fictional town of Kiewarra, "The Dry" follows the story of Aaron Falk (played by Eric Bana), a federal agent who returns to his hometown for the funeral of his childhood friend, Luke Hadler. Luke's apparent murder-suicide has shaken the community, but as Aaron delves deeper into the investigation, he begins to question the official narrative.

Haunted by his own past and the unresolved death of a young girl decades ago, Aaron teams up with the local police sergeant Greg Raco (played by Keir O'Donnell) to uncover the truth. As they dig deeper, they unearth long-buried secrets that threaten to tear the town apart.

The Power of Storytelling

At the heart of "The Dry" is a compelling and intricately woven narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film expertly balances the present-day murder investigation with flashbacks to Aaron's troubled past, gradually revealing the interconnectedness of events. The screenplay, written by Harry Cripps and Robert Connolly, stays true to the essence of the novel, capturing the tension and suspense that made the book a bestseller.

Stellar Performances

"The Dry" boasts a stellar ensemble cast that delivers powerful performances, bringing the characters to life with depth and authenticity. Eric Bana's portrayal of Aaron Falk is captivating, showcasing his range as an actor. Bana effortlessly conveys the internal struggle and emotional turmoil that Aaron experiences as he confronts his past and uncovers the truth.

The supporting cast, including Genevieve O'Reilly as Gretchen, Aaron's childhood friend, and BeBe Bettencourt as Ellie Deacon, a young girl connected to the past, deliver standout performances that add layers of complexity to the story. Each actor brings their A-game, immersing the audience in the world of "The Dry."

Cinematic Brilliance

Visually, "The Dry" is a masterpiece. The cinematography by Stefan Duscio beautifully captures the harsh and unforgiving Australian landscape, mirroring the drought-stricken town's atmosphere. The use of wide shots and sweeping aerial views adds to the film's sense of isolation and impending danger.

The film's score, composed by Peter Raeburn, further enhances the tension and suspense, heightening the emotional impact of key scenes. The combination of stunning visuals and a haunting musical score creates a truly immersive cinematic experience.

Themes of Redemption and Justice

"The Dry" explores themes of redemption, guilt, and the pursuit of justice. As Aaron Falk confronts his past and seeks answers, the film delves into the complexities of small-town dynamics, where secrets are tightly held and loyalties are tested. It raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of truth and the lengths people will go to protect their own.

Conclusion
"The Dry" is a masterfully crafted thriller that captivates from start to finish. With its compelling storytelling, stellar performances, breathtaking cinematography, and thought-provoking themes, the film is a must-watch for fans of the genre. Robert Connolly's direction brings Jane Harper's bestselling novel to life, delivering a riveting and atmospheric experience that will leave you breathless.
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The Dry (2021): A Gripping Thriller That Leaves You Breathless
(Updated: January 04, 2025)
Overall rating
 
4.0
Entertainment Factor
 
4.0
Story
 
4.0
Actors Performance
 
4.0
Cinematography
 
4.0
Sound Track
 
4.0
"The Dry," directed by Robert Connolly and based on the bestselling novel by Jane Harper, is a captivating and atmospheric thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With its compelling storytelling, brilliant performances, and haunting cinematography, this film delivers a gripping experience that will leave you breathless.

Set in a small Australian town ravaged by drought, "The Dry" follows federal agent Aaron Falk, portrayed with remarkable depth by Eric Bana, as he returns to his hometown to attend the funeral of an old friend. As he reconnects with the community, he becomes entangled in a decades-old mystery involving the death of a teenage girl and a shocking secret that threatens to unravel the town's fragile peace.

The film expertly weaves together past and present, gradually unraveling the layers of the mystery while exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the weight of the past. The screenplay, penned by Harry Cripps and Robert Connolly, remains faithful to the source material, capturing its haunting atmosphere and delivering taut, suspenseful moments that will keep you guessing until the very end.

The performances in "The Dry" are outstanding across the board. Eric Bana delivers a mesmerizing portrayal of a haunted man grappling with his own demons. His nuanced performance captures Falk's internal conflicts and showcases his range as an actor. The supporting cast, including Genevieve O'Reilly, Keir O'Donnell, and John Polson, deliver strong performances that add depth and authenticity to the story.

One of the film's standout elements is its breathtaking cinematography. The arid landscapes of rural Australia are beautifully captured, emphasizing the desolation and isolation that permeate the narrative. The cinematographer, Stefan Duscio, skillfully utilizes the vastness of the Australian outback to create an eerie and oppressive atmosphere that mirrors the suspenseful nature of the story.

"The Dry" is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling. The gradual unraveling of secrets, the palpable tension, and the skillful direction keep you engaged throughout. The film successfully combines elements of a character-driven drama with a murder mystery, resulting in a thoroughly captivating experience.

In conclusion, "The Dry" is a must-watch thriller that will leave you captivated and emotionally invested. With its exceptional performances, atmospheric visuals, and a compelling narrative, this film stands as a testament to the power of Australian cinema. Prepare to be enthralled by this tense and haunting tale of secrets, guilt, and the unyielding grip of the past.
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