The Cost (2022) Poster

(2022)

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7/10
At what Cost?
Bourne-Reloaded11 December 2022
How far would you go to get even?

What lengths would you go to exact revenge, and at what price would you be willing to pay for it or believe it would administer you satisfaction and justice?

These are some of the questions, not answers, that The Cost poses in its challenging and often unsettling narrative.

Written and directed by Australian producer Matthew Holmes and co-written with Gregory Moss this is a worthy addition to the Australian movie landscape and a tense and tight-scripted film to round off 2022. With convincing performances throughout, The Cost seems to have been well casted and carefully thought-out to indeed deliver a thought-provoking experience that will stay with you at least on the drive home and probably longer.

I found it hard to place into a genre and that can be a positive thing for a film sometimes, reflecting the originality of the piece - or at least the will to do so.

Violence collides with conscience here and with a twisting and turning narrative, The Cost packs a punch right to the end, with a brooding soundtrack that fills the film throughout and at feels apt at all times.

I had the chance to see it at the Adelaide premiere and supporters of Australian film, and of course anyone with an openness to be challenged (and a little unsettled), would find here in this film enough meaty content to chew on pre or post Christmas lunch, depending if you have the chance to see it in cinemas or streaming online.
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6/10
ONE OF THE BEST AUSSIE FILMS THIS YEAR
movieguy300013 October 2023
Great story telling here, edge of your seat stuff, really enjoyed it.

Another good follow up by talented director Matt Holmes, I didn't like The Legend of Ben Hall, this was much better,

Most of the actors are good except the guy who plays the Jordan is not the most convincing of actors especially in a role that requires so much emotion because of the themes.

Damon Hunter and Mark Dee are exceptional and should be nominated or win awards at this years AACTA awards.

Overall great storytelling, great locations, great production design and music and great direction.

Congrats to everyone who made this film, its a great Indie effort.

Only lost marks for Jordan's casting and some story holes or plausibility issues like when the girl getting kidnapped at the beginning she's walking in a dark street and doesn't even look around, I found that highly unlikely, most women look around.

Also, its just missing some genuine emotion, it has all the right ingredients, but something was missing, I should have felt more - it needed more heart, to dig even deeper into the soul of losing someone to murder. I found that it was Jordan who let it down, I should have cried for his loss, but something didn't connect.

Some people in the reviews claimed it was THOUGH-PROVOKING I mean to each their own but really this is not the type of film you're going to walk away contemplating life unless you're a murderer.

What this film is pure excellent entertainment.
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8/10
Superbly taught, well written, acted and directed thriller shot during the pamdemic
azanti00299 November 2023
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?
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9/10
Would you commit?
LeadTheWayFilms8 July 2023
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.
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9/10
Holding your breath the whole way. True revenge thriller
KJOY30 November 2022
I attended the premier on 26/11/22 at Monsterfest in Carlton. Really loved this film. Violent yes - it is brutal to view - but every moment of it had a purpose. And every moment had consequences. Hard to say much without spoilers but it really is well worth seeing. Nothing about this film felt "low budget". The script was excellent - tight. No wasted words. But also really well edited. There was no moment where you thought it was dragging or a scene lacked purpose.

The quality of every person cast was spot on. There were moments were everything changed in their eyes - no words needed. You knew exactly what their character was going through right in that moment. The exact moment their entire thought process changed. Kudos for that.

The cinematography was sublime. A real stand out for me. I'm not a big fan of the current trend of overly shaky in your face camera work. Instead this was steady, emotive, crisp work that added to the overall feeling of the tense story. The chase through the forest was a particular cinematography highlight for me. I keep replaying it in my head over and over.

It was really lovely to meet cast and crew after the premier. Congratulations to everyone for a fine film.

Adding: Days later I am still thinking about certain scenes and what was going through each characters mind at that time. This is a film where the thoughts of ramifications really stay with you.
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9/10
The darkest corners of the human heart
emilywolfe-8034228 November 2022
I went along to the opening of this film. I had no idea what it was about so I had no preconceived notions. I was absolutely impressed. This movie is FULL ON. Start to finish. I sat up the back of the theatre and had a good view of the crowd's reaction. People were covering their faces and looking away. The subject matter is confronting and runs the gambit of every emotion. My partner and I talked about it on the way home, while laying in bed and I woke up thinking about the morality of the story; What would I or anyone do in this situation? What am I capable of? In my opinion, that's a sign of a great movie ...even if it did make me squirm. I put this up there as currently one of my favorite Australian movies.
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8/10
A good introduction to the director
lukemcclounan9 November 2023
My first experience with a film from Matthew Holmes, though I've heard good things about The Legend of Ben Hall.

The one thing I liked a lot about this film is that it left us debating. I saw this with a bunch of friends, and the way the story plays out and ends in a somewhat open way caused some fun discussion between us.

Though I can understand complaints about a predictable story, I don't think that necessarily takes away from the film. The story is still told in an engaging and gripping way and the cast delivered strong performances.

I really liked how Aussie Clayton Watson was in the role as the farmer Brian, and the tension in the campfire scene was one of the better moments of the film.

I'd definitely be keen to check more out from Matthew Holmes.
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9/10
Still buzzing after attending the premier of "The Cost"
YanaBou7 December 2022
Wow! Loved, loved, loved! What a film! What an experience it was. From the very first scene to the very end you will be on the edge of the seat, your perception of what is right and wrong will swap places. Extremely thought provoking masterpiece. You will leave the cinema and will keep thinking about the film for days. What would I do in this situation? How far would you go to serve the justice? Who is a real bad character in the film? Highly recommended.

Meeting the cast and everyone involved in the production was a true highlight of my night. Thank you for creating one of my favourite films.
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9/10
Revenge is not so sweet.
aidanjfphelan1 December 2022
Matthew Holmes delivers a truly powerful examination of the psychology of revenge in this tense thriller. It begs the viewer to question their own moral fortitude and whether or not they believe in an eye for an eye.

Holmes has yet again assembled a team of artists around him that seem to know exactly how to achieve his vision and do it justice. The performances are gut wrenching, the cinematography is slick and superb, the soundtrack is haunting, and the screenplay is en pointe. This is a film that shows that you don't need hundreds of millions of dollars to make something that looks it.

What makes The Cost especially powerful is that, unlike so many other revenge films, it doesn't glorify violence, nor does it lionise those who use violence in retribution. It questions how far is too far? When our characters find themselves questioning their choices it rings true, and we even find ourselves bouncing back and forth over what we would do in that situation.

The squeamish might find this one a difficult watch, but The Cost rewards the perseverance of the viewer with a deeply moving exploration of the human psyche.
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8/10
Justice(?) in the bush.
slimchicken10 November 2023
The Cost stands out as a compelling and intense exploration of vigilante justice and its moral ramifications. This Australian film delves into the complex consequences of revenge, as it unfolds the story of two individuals taking matters into their own hands after a rapist and murderer is released prematurely from prison. The film doesn't shy away from the harsh realities, portraying the brutality experienced by both the victim and the perpetrators. It navigates the psychological toll of their actions, prompting reflection on the effectiveness and fairness of the legal system.

The narrative goes beyond the surface, raising thought-provoking questions about the human capacity for forgiveness and redemption. It's not just a tale of retribution; it's a nuanced exploration of morality and the intricate web of emotions that come with such extreme circumstances. The three lead actors deliver outstanding performances, earning recognition at various film festivals- a testament to their skill in bringing depth to the characters.

One notable aspect is the juxtaposition of the stunning Australian landscape against the dark and violent events that unfold. The cinematography skillfully contrasts the beauty of the surroundings with the harshness of the narrative, adding layers to the storytelling. It's a cinematic choice that enhances the overall impact of the film.

The Cost isn't just a movie; it's a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

It prompts viewers to reflect on justice, morality, and the intricate shades of human nature.

The film's ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and depth, coupled with stellar performances and striking visuals, cements it as a powerful and thought-provoking piece of cinema.
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9/10
THE COST "Remember to breath!"
glennwil-3390427 November 2022
What a terrific Night with MONSTER FEST at The Nova. THE COST is an extraordinary achievement and an important film. There have been significant Revenge thrillers in recent times. THE COST budget was tiny in comparison and should not suffer due to the lack of big names. The commitment of the Cast and Crew and all involved is to be congratulated as this is about the real complexities of Revenge, as the title states "THE COST" This is a totally believable story right down to one specific decision I will not spoil. What we would like to do in a film and what we would do in the real situation is the real difference in these films. THE COST is about the immediacy of the action, it's so real and believable, did I say that? Dialogue is kept to a minimum as who wants to chat in such a situation. The only real expression of joy is in flashback a voice of the past that has left it's mark. Once the plan is set in motion there's no going back, or is there? The characters make mistakes just we all do, even those who say "BULLSHIT that would never happen?" It does! And it's profound. There's little humour because this isn't funny, this is questioning everything we believe and even a tiny moment of reprieve just throws a massive spanner in the works. This film looks incredible, it's Australia and it looks like a big budget feature avoiding the go to casual grittiness often used in raw thrillers/horror films. Close ups allow us to read every emotion and feel the turmoil. The acting doesn't step beyond it leaps into the visceral complexities of the multi dimensional fears that slow burn then explode on screen. The build up, flash backs, brutal centre piece punctuated by real challenges, internal and external and the exhausting finale leaves you wondering "WHAT IF?" The soundtrack is superb a masterpiece of tension, it's a character reminiscent of John Carpenter's Halloween, The Fog etc, Wendy Carlos and Rachel Elkind The Shinning, Ennio Morricone The Thing and others. I was wowed by the look, the choice of costume, it's familiar and tells us about the people that inhabit them. A floral dress, a dark check flannel shirt, baggie ill fitting jeans, a much loved Hat and a jacket!!! Sent shivers down my back, it was lived in, from good times but now a battle jacket. The make up, so so real even too real. The sound effects, crisp, terrifying. The choice of locations, the Australian Bush although beautiful and familiar is foreboding and lonely and it always has a surprise in store. This is Hitchockian in feel, things don't always go to plan and just when you think it's done something else turns up, a quirk of human nature that sends things reeling out of control, if they ever were? This is tight smart movie making, we even question what we see or don't see through an unflinching lense, definitive direction, powerful, passionate acting and sharp fluid editing. I have purposefully avoided using names because everyone made this film and this is the wonder of so much of Australian film making and why WE as a country should see Our movies. Just remember to keep breathing. BLOODY BRILLIANT!!! Regards Glenn.
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9/10
The Monster Inside
smashdavis19 January 2023
I watched this movie a month ago and am still questioning where I stand on the issues raised, so many shades of grey.

The most shocking aspect is probably the ordinariness of all the characters involved, and the realisation that life-shattering events can happen to any of us at any time. Anyone can find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. We can never really know how we will react in a situation or what we are truly capable of until faced with the unimaginable. There is a vast difference between planning revenge as a coping mechanism and the actual act of revenge, as the protagonists discover. If we cross the line, can we ever find our way back?

Writing, acting and directing were all excellent and added up to a gut-wrenching experience.
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10/10
Gripping, tense and thought provoking
dmcarter-5076211 December 2022
The Cost is a tense, gripping film which keeps the viewer engrossed. The acting is excellent. The lead actors bring out reciprocal emotions of torment including empathy for the villain. The tight editing and sound track ensures concentration to the end. The characters' interactions and motivations are believable keeping it realistic. It challenges the viewer to consider ethical dilemmas and to wonder what course one would take if in such a situation. Unlike Hollywood style films with their, oh so easy, clear delineation between good and evil, this film leads to discussion and consideration. There is violence which is confronting but at no stage is it gratuitous.
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9/10
A wild ride!
marianparkinson-7668516 December 2022
The Cost is as impressive as it is gripping. Its a wild ride from start to finish.

For almost 2 hours the audience is taken on a challenging journey that tests your values and moral compass to the enth degree. It is hard not to question yourself and constantly ask, " what would I do in the same situation?" A tight script, superb camera work and editing, and brilliant acting make this movie work at every level. The structure of the film matches the intensity of the emotion and actions of the cast at every turn.

Its a movie that holds your attention and demands much from the audience. Thought provoking, incredibly tense and traumatic, this riveting film invokes a range of emotions within the characters ranging from empathy, compassion, forgiveness, truth and justice, to guilt, rage and revenge and invites us to explore these feelings long after we leave the theatre.
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10/10
Edge of your seat stuff!
jessicamhoward14 December 2022
Edge of your seat stuff!

It wasn't predictable & it was so real & interesting. It definitely made people start to ask the hard questions that need to be asked in our current society.

The juxtaposition of the different actors' mentalities was clever & you could really understand their different view points & emotions (clever writing & acting).

GREAT acting & thrilling story! All the lead actors did a fabulous job. The writers/directors have done wonderfully, pushing people to really think about alot of hard topics & decide if a different stance needs to be taken... this is an Australian film that will go far!
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9/10
Hang Onto The Edge Of Your Seat
crsmith-0584811 December 2022
First of all, see this film in the Cinema! That way you can't freeze it, walk away, or skip scenes when it becomes too confronting.

This film will have you thinking about your own personal values for some time after viewing it. The circumstances behind David and Aaron's vigilante stance could happen to anyone of us.

We have all seen movies where vigilantes are glorified to make us all feel comfortable with their decisions. This is not one of them. Rather it brings the focus back to what we would do in similar circumstances, which can change as the movie progresses.

Although many scenes were quite confronting, they stopped short of making them too horrifying. This was a sound decision of the directors and producers to ensure the movie will be more widely viewed.

The acting was first class and all the dialogue very realistic. The scenery and haunting music also added to the plot and purpose of the movie.

Well done, Matthew Holmes and the cast. Along with The Legend of Ben Hall, The Cost is a must to see.
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9/10
Thought provoking
castle-380472 December 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I found myself on an interesting journey, hours of inner dialogue. Back and force I went, kill him, no don't, kill him, no don't. Coaxing myself through the victim's torture, questionable exactly who the victim really is. For sake of this analysis, the rapist, perhaps the real victim here. I found myself on a self comforting saga in a most strange manner, becoming staunch and stone cold within my heart as I watched the scenes, torment. A coping mechanism to justify watching Aaron and David take revenge on this man. A polarisation of my own emotions, reminding myself as the man bled and endured pain at another's hands of what this man has done. Somehow that could make it ok. That could keep me in a state of numbness to comfort me to continue watching, a kind of authoritarian stance within myself, that I'm somehow part of justice that should be served. Then another inner dialogue sets in, beating my own thoughts up...the 'but', but this man is a human being, with feelings, with remorse? And then I'm torn, as I realise, I myself am not that cold, this is not me, I allow myself to feel compassion, a natural setting, then I'm flipping...back and forth I go. No Aaron, No David, you can't do this! Let the law decide, as they already did. And then I think, but who the hell is the law anyhow, but another group of human beings, another Aaron and David? This film leaves me with one sentiment of certainty, we are all humans doing human things. That is both the sadness and tragedy of being human.

Thanks guys for a great ensemble. Gruelling, gripping and brave. -Anna.
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9/10
The Cost: Deep and Confronting - Not to be Missed
snowraven-4017229 November 2022
Occasionally - rarely, even - one walks out of a cinema challenged by and deep in thought about the film one's just seen. You want, need, to go away and think, ask and answer the questions raised by what you've just watched. And even days after seeing the film, you are still asking, considering, wondering, thinking about your own personal values and views. Such a film is a cinematic gem, and 'The Cost' is that. The story is raw, real, totally believable, and superbly told. The casting is perfection, and each of the three main characters is finely drawn and brilliantly realised. Beautifully directed and shot, this is another Matthew Holmes masterpiece.
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10/10
Great suspense, great acting
jasminesveganrecipes26 October 2023
I do love a good revenge story and this one did not disappointment! This is a really decent suspense film with excellent twists and turns. I thouroughly enjoyed the storyline and would not have predicted the ending. It definitely had me in the edge of my seat. It also features some really great acting as well and very believable characters that were easy to empathise with.. as well as to not to empathise with. It was nice to see featured the reality of the lack of justice that is so often delivered to people who commit violence against women too. It's also always great to see some Australian scenery and hear some Australian accents on screen for a change too.
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9/10
Home made thriller that never lets up!
lorridaz26 October 2023
As an Aussie, I have always had a soft spot for home made flicks so when something like this comes along, it makes me proud of Aussie filmmaking. If you're familiar with Matthew Holmes (Twin Rivers, The Legend Of Ben Hall) then you already know what a classy director he is and how well he chooses his cast. The Cost is no different - everything about it is honest and keeps you on the edge of your seat til the finale. Get it, see it, love it. If we're really lucky, this movie will fare well enough so that Matthew can get his "Bushranger" films back on track because I was really excited to see those hit the big screen...
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10/10
Great Australian Film
acbmaj26 October 2023
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.
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9/10
The study of the human condition on full display in tense thriller!
stevetrevaskis19 October 2023
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!
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9/10
Don't Look Away - this is what Revenge looks like.
kdungey-349399 October 2023
As we stood in the lobby, the producers saw our grey hair and were very concerned that we understood that this was a very violent and confronting film (which we did, although we knew little else about the film beyond the posters).

This did make us uneasy and wondering what we had let ourselves in for, but in fact, there was no need to be concerned. The violence is really quite mild and this difference is actually the point of the film. The violence is all in the protagonists' heads: what they want to do to their hapless victim and have been planning to do for over three years is so vicious and debasing that when it finally becomes time to act, they just don't have the tools.

Many film-makers, including Alfred Hitchcock, have tried to demonstrate just how difficult it is for ordinary people to actually kill a person in cold blood (think of "Torn Curtain"). If these fellows had been able to get their hands on their sister/wife's murderer at the time, when their rage and grief was in full bloom, there would have been an awful mess. But now fifteen years have gone by, and their fury has cooled and become a heavy stone.

Perhaps what is missing from the violence in this film is the slow viciousness, the evil wish to cause pain for the sake of it - that pervades a film like "Reservoir Dogs", for instance. The boys try their hardest to maintain the rage, but the whimpering, pathetic figure now at their mercy instils only revulsion.

Even the way they had planned to finally do away with their victim was literally at arm's length. So even in the dreaming, they were ambivalent and could not let themselves imagine the reality of the sight, feel and smell of bleeding, of eye contact, of... death. From the start, their humanity was dragging them back.

But - and here is the real dilemma - having gone this far, what to do? Complete the job and become what they hate? Or to stop and face unthinkable consequences? Either way, there will be a Cost. What follows is at once inevitable, yet unexpected.

"The Cost" is beautifully written, shot and acted, with high production values and I can't find a flaw. The juxtaposition of the gorgeous Australian scenery with the ugly human drama taking place within it is brilliant. Every element that goes to making this film is of equal value and high standard. There are what seem like cliches, but these all seem to dissolve into the unexpected, and there are several really shocking surprises (none of which rely on gore to provide the shock).

Events seem to unfold at their own pace and we are allowed to follow the narrative without being hit over the head with clues about what to think, feel or understand. In that way, the audience is treated with true respect.

This is a really intelligent film.
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9/10
An Australian Noir Gem.
garyboulter5 October 2023
Do our choices define us? Is revenge worth it? Does the end justify the means? I could go on, but these are just some of the things that came to mind whilst watching this superb and gripping thriller from Australian director Matthew Holmes.

This engrossing vigilante film is about two ordinary men who make an extraordinary decision that will affect their lives forever. The performances from the 3 main leads, Jordan Fraser Trumble, Damon Hunter and Kevin Dee are note perfect.

Matthew Homes presents us with well-paced thought-provoking film that is well deserving of the awards and praise the film has received so far. I look forward to his future films.
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10/10
Run to the nearest theatre where "The Cost " is showing
mayalivshhitz20 October 2023
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" .
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