The Cost

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The history of how The Cost was able to be made at all, is almost as interesting as the film itself. So as there is no confusion for the benefit of other readers, this is no 'Shill' review from some angry bitter individual, who probably hasn't even seen the movie. This is a review from a highly critical cinema-goer, who likes to spend his pennies wisely. Matthew Holmes, probably the most underrated and under supported film maker in Australia arsenal of talent decided to make a movie out of pure frustration in-between the small lifts of lockdown. Armed with a tiny crew and a strong concept, he approached the material with a practical sense of what could be achieved under such conditions. A noble cause indeed, but is it any good? In a word - Yes. Opening with a long build up, where you're not quite sure of who is who, we're introduced to three men. One has just been released from prison, the other two kidnap him and drag him to woods in the middle of nowhere, where it's revealed, he has served time for raping and killing a young woman. One of the men is her brother, the other is her husband. They intend to make him suffer, but at what cost to themselves? The Cost asks the viewer some pretty uncomfortable questions. How far would you go for revenge if you knew the outcome would change you forever? That is the dilemma for both not only the characters but also our audience. A film like this, with a tight cast and well written dialogue, is always going to stand or fall on the performances of the three leads. Fortunately the acting here is outstanding, and I do not give that compliment out lightly. Kevin Dee gives a raw, terrified performance as the criminal Troy, while Jordan Fraser-Trumble as the former husband David plays the uncertainty of his characters conviction to see things through with great skill. But it is the brooding performance of Damon Hunter here who steals the show. You suspect he could be every bit as dangerous as Troy, on any given day of the week, and this dynamic trio makes for riveting viewing. Only someone seeking to bash this film for the sake of their own importance, with absolutely no understanding of the craft of acting would critique these performances as any less than top quality. These are three actors who completely committed to the film and made it work. The tension builds thanks to the skilful direction of Holmes, and the tight screenplay, written by himself and Gregory Moss. This is an Australian Blood Simple for the modern era and the team involved should all be marked as people to watch out for. Made for a mere fraction of what it would cost Hollywood this is independent film-making at its finest. I highly recommend this film, which while not without a few small flaws is well worth your time. So I ask the Australian Production Power Houses and Gatekeepers, how many films does a filmmaker of the obvious talent that Mr Holmes clearly has in spades, have to make on his own before you will give him the support he so clearly deserves?

The Cost is an Australian thriller drama I heard of for the first time before it's screening at the Vision Splendid Film Festival (June, 2023). It was a major drawcard for me as I'm a lover of crime fiction. I only watched the beginning of the trailer to avoid spoilers. The film held me from beginning to end. I was invested in the characters' decisions from the moment the gag was pulled! It was a visceral experience that drew exclaims from the audience. There was also a red herring timely placed that will leave many to wonder what could have been. Nail biting climax to a sustained tension drama with outstanding actors-it's a film that can be discussed at length and that's a good thing.

I love the escapism of hollywood revenge films just as much as the next guy but it's refreshing to see a film explore the reality of seeking revenge against someone who has committed a crime against one of your loved ones. The study of the human condition is on full display as two men try to carry out their own justice! Matthew Holmes and Gregory Moss have done an excellent job writing this story and will have you discussing it with friends well after the film has finished, could you carry out your own justice? The acting from Jordan Fraser-Trumble, Damon Hunter and Kevin Dee is exceptional and kept me on the edge of my seat along with strong performances from Nicole Pastor and Clayton Watson. Highly recommend!

All stars for brilliant acting, plot and the beautiful Aussie scenery !!!! The characters and the decisions they made were relatable and realistic. Lots of raw humanness in this film, questions over what's right and wrong ... forgiveness, loyalty, revenge ... family ... the harsh and vulnerable reality of being female in this world and the very real dangers. There's lots of issues up for discussion after watching this, especially about the judicial system, justice right and wrong and even grief. I highly recommend this film for anyone wanting a good Aussie dose of realism with quality acting and filming.

source: The Cost

Let me just warn you: I like romantic comedies, adventure fantasies and supernatural themed shows. You have noticed in this short list absence of drama, true stories, political thrillers, war/espionage/sports/historical drama , psychological tragedies and anything else vaguely connected to reality or violence. So, what was I doing last Wednesday going to Randwick Ritz Cinema to watch Matthew Holmes latest oeuvre " The Cost"? A psychological revenge drama if there ever was one. Well, Holmes is an Australian independent filmmaker , independence in the film industry is very difficult to maintain in any country, but in Australia it is paramount to heroism. Anyone interested in supporting Australian cinema's independents would not have to attend a dozen screenings a year, or three screenings, or even one. It is that rare an occurrence. It took Holmes seven years to make "The Cost", his third film to date, and it is a masterpiece. From the first minute to the last it sustains the viewer's attention, engaging heart and mind, surprising the viewers at every turn. When the film ends you keep thinking about it for days afterwards , trying to comprehend the motives and reasons behind the actions of the three protagonists. The writers approach, and Holmes is the writer here, is so startlingly fresh that one struggles to assign a particular genre to the film. I can't stress it enough- do yourself a favour- go see "The Cost" .