An enjoyable little film based on a true story, don't know what the bad reviewers were expecting? It's not an action film, just a heartwarming little story of how a rescued magpie helps a family come to terms with the devastating accident suffered by the Mother, and in turn helps her to begin enjoying life again. If nothing else does, the magpies will entertain you, Naomi Watts is her usual reliable self, with a perfectly competent supporting cast. Goes along at a casual pace which puts you in there with the family. I liked it, as has everyone I know who's seen it!

This was a magnificent watch with some mindblowing performances and credible and compelling storytelling.

Moreover, it has this simplicity that makes the film realistic. We are somewhat dropped into a family that is dealing with the aftermath of tragedy, but with a human-emotion focus.

While some other scriptwriters may have chosen to focus on post-tragedy sporting achievements and overcoming adversity using a mix of emotional and practical standpoints, the scriptwriters here really focus on mental anguish, learning to cope and somehow trying to re-find hope. But at no point does it descend into Hollywood shmultz, instead keeping things totally realistic and down to earth.

It is a tear-jerker, so for viewers who are known to weep a little during films, this one my require at least a pocket pack of tissues.

I wished more films like this were made. The story, at the end of the day, is straightforward and for that reason, the viewer doesn't end up being sidetracked with bizarre or strangely complex subplots. But it says so much with so little. Even it's central metaphor may be fairly obvious, though I don't think films should be frowned upon for weaving subtlety and obscurity into its metaphoric dimensions.

Wonderful film for Australia too - and hopefully captures the eye of award bodies. Rachel House's performance was a striking aspect. Go see it.

4 out of 5 stars.

Penguin Bloom is a good drama film about the Bloom family when they are going through a life changing incident. On a family trip in Thailand, Sam (Naomi Watts) gets into an accident leaving her paralyzed. Her husband Cameron (Andrew Lincoln) and there three boys try to adjust the life changing. Sam feeling hopeless and useless. Since she is limited to what she can do. Her boys finds an injured bird that they try to care for. Which Sam tries to not lose hope.

It is a powerful plot. Emotional with Sam going through tough changes being paralyzed. Cant do anything without the help from her husband and kids. She hates the idea of being useless. Cameron is trying to be there and supportive. While the boys are slowly adjusting. Then, lets add a cute bird that they try to care for into the mix. Which also adds into the emotional story.

The cast ensemble is good. Andrew Lincoln did a good job with his role. After seeing him in Walking Dead for the longest time. Naomi Watts did a great job playing as Sam.

It is a touching and heart warming story about a real family going through changes. While overcoming the struggle. Definitely a good film worth checking out.