Introducing The Dwights
Posted by Brian C. Gibson (brian@filmschoolrejects.com) on July 16, 2007
In a world filled with mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, sons and daughters, and young couples, Introducing the Dwights finds a place that almost anyone can relate to. The film hails from Australia, almost halfway across the world, but feels just like home because of its characters and timeless story.
Jean Dwight (Brenda Blethyn) is an aging stage performer, living at the end of her own broken dream. She gave up the better part of her prime to take care of her now ex-husband, and two sons Tim (Khan Chittenden) and Mark (Richard Wilson). Tim has been the man of the house due to his father not living with the family, and his younger brother Mark having suffered brain damage as an infant. When Tim meets Jill (Emma Booth) though, things begin to change for the entire family.
Jean, not used to Tim having another woman in his life, fights for his loyalty and love. Battling with her own regrets and decreasing attention from both of her sons, Jean demands a place in their life. Forcing Tim to stay around the house more, and keeping mark sheltered from the world, Jean tries to bring her family closer but ultimately ends up pushing them further away.
Introducing the Dwights, otherwise known as Clubland, is an anthem for all families. It shows the growth that all families experience, especially the growing pains. The many themes in the film only help various people relate to the film in a very strong way. Mothers all know what it is like to see their children grow, and eventually leave. Every girl knows what it is like to battle her mother-in-law for attention and turf.
The films success may be its timeless story, but the films highlite is without a doubt its performances. Brenda Blethyn is back in her Oscar form, brings a character to the screen that almost any mother would grieve for. The younger thespians also lit up the screen. Chittenden and Booth moved between each heartbreaking, uncomfortable and comedic scene with grace. Richard Wilson grounded the film with some great comic relief and also some very heartfelt moments.
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