Real or not real? Real.

There are so many things I could say about this film. The characters are outstanding, the plot is thought provoking and superbly executed, the soundtrack is spine tingling, the action is on a grand scale, and the ultimate victory is beyond satisfying. I could also say, without revealing too much, that while I read and watched the films, I was hoping for a specific pairing, and while it did not eventuate, I could see why and was moved by the choice. Yet, the truth is, nothing I can say will do the books, the adaptation to film, nor the films themselves any justice whatsoever. I think that one of the greatest strengths of this series is its ability to move the individual beyond words and strike a chord on a personal level in different ways for everyone, and on that note, I will let it speak for itself- there are certainly worse games to play.

Its very fabric is something to behold

Tilly Dunnage returns to her home town to confront the demons of her past, and spend some time with her mother- or so she thinks. While so at home in the country, her elegant and richly coloured clothing is uniquelly out of place with the rustic appeal of the town.

Yet rather than welcoming friendly folk, the members of her would-be-community are judgemental and cruel. As Tilly progresses in her stay, it seems the more she befriends the people from her past, the more others strive to kick her down.

In the face of it all, the colourful police inspector provides a lot of laughs, as Teddy wins her heart and shields her from the dark world as best he can.

However, the film also contains tragic turns and sorely unanticipated twists.

This film is fantastic. I was very impressed by it. It made me laugh as hard as I cried, and the acting was exceptional against the beautiful backdrop of the Australian outback and the richness of the clothing.

Five Quills out of Five, and many more than that if I could.