"The Earthling" is a much-maligned story concerning Holden's character, terminally ill with cancer, on a pilgrimage to a remote valley in the Australian bush where he lived as a child. Along the way he discovers Schroeder, orphaned after his parents (Thompson & Hamnett) accidentally drive their campervan over a cliff while holidaying in the remote idyll. Together the pair form a mature bond as Holden tries to teach the young apprentice the primitive life skills that will keep him alive in the wilderness, long enough to find his way back to civilisation.
Regularly criticised, I watched this movie for myself many years ago and was surprised by its quality; that of the cinematography, acting and Collinson's direction, culminating in a bittersweet and moving tale that's not as cheesy as some of the previews and reviews imply.
There's a couple of pathos moments that probably didn't need to happen, but generally, the film's tone is sincere and the plot has enough content and momentum to carry its 100 minutes duration. Not a classic, but it's far better than some high profile reviews would suggest, in my opinion.
Regularly criticised, I watched this movie for myself many years ago and was surprised by its quality; that of the cinematography, acting and Collinson's direction, culminating in a bittersweet and moving tale that's not as cheesy as some of the previews and reviews imply.
There's a couple of pathos moments that probably didn't need to happen, but generally, the film's tone is sincere and the plot has enough content and momentum to carry its 100 minutes duration. Not a classic, but it's far better than some high profile reviews would suggest, in my opinion.