The Australian film The Mule was well-received in its world premiere at the SXSW Film Festival. It is an entertaining, if not terribly memorable film, based on some version of supposedly true events from the 1980s. The kernel of truth appears to have been the case of a man arrested as a drug mule and retained in custody for an extended period of time during which he refused to defecate and thus expel the packets of heroin from inside his body. The comedic story that the writers concocted around these true events appears to be mostly fictional. The story moves along nicely and is told in an entertaining manner with a heavy dose of Aussie accents. The acting is reasonable with an expected level of grossness that this particular subject matter demands. The best part of the night, however, was when the writer and director appeared on stage after the film completely drunk and went off on ridiculous rants that ended with one-handed push-ups. Since they're Australians, I'm not sure that anyone was all that surprised.
29 Reviews
Solid Story Humbly Told, Hits The Mark!
AudioFileZ24 December 2014
Warning: Spoilers
This is one of those films purporting to be based on a true story, stating so before the film starts. This is usually a tip off that only a small percentage of what the viewer is about to see is actually true. Maybe it's a filter? As in if you're worried about the story being straightforward and literal you should adjust that in order to enjoy the ride? I'd say that's good advice because it's a dark comedy about an unwitting pawn being used who, in the end, emerges as the smartest man in the room. A good simple story that works on the screen more than it stumbles no matter what the truth/fictional quotient is.
The central character, Ray, is a young man who is cast as an oafish backward type most definitely past the natural age of being so dependent and subservient to his mother. This is Ray. Ray's life has stalled in part due to him living at home under his mother's thumb. He truly loves his mum though he feels dominated. Ray works as a TV repairman in the last local TV fix-it shop owned by his step-father. His step-father, has, mostly, alienated himself to Ray also being on his last legs with Ray's mother due to his compulsive gambling and drinking. This is a setup for the local crime boss holding Ray's father's debt. He manipulates Ray, through an old football club friend with the step-father's blessing. Ray reluctantly, decides to be a one-time drug mule as he can then help his mother financially while asserting his independence simultaneously.
So, a pretty standard tale of a "sad sack" 'neer-do-well, who perhaps (remember after seeing it I said "perhaps") slow on the up-take, gets used as a pawn for a drug smuggling outfit. For something standard the movie ends much more creative if not original. This Aussie production is definitely not Hollywood in scope, but scores a kind of independent cred as it feels slightly rough not wholly polished much for the good. What could be a boring story which, at times, plays slowly, in the end delivers good entertainment and closure.
The central character, Ray, is a young man who is cast as an oafish backward type most definitely past the natural age of being so dependent and subservient to his mother. This is Ray. Ray's life has stalled in part due to him living at home under his mother's thumb. He truly loves his mum though he feels dominated. Ray works as a TV repairman in the last local TV fix-it shop owned by his step-father. His step-father, has, mostly, alienated himself to Ray also being on his last legs with Ray's mother due to his compulsive gambling and drinking. This is a setup for the local crime boss holding Ray's father's debt. He manipulates Ray, through an old football club friend with the step-father's blessing. Ray reluctantly, decides to be a one-time drug mule as he can then help his mother financially while asserting his independence simultaneously.
So, a pretty standard tale of a "sad sack" 'neer-do-well, who perhaps (remember after seeing it I said "perhaps") slow on the up-take, gets used as a pawn for a drug smuggling outfit. For something standard the movie ends much more creative if not original. This Aussie production is definitely not Hollywood in scope, but scores a kind of independent cred as it feels slightly rough not wholly polished much for the good. What could be a boring story which, at times, plays slowly, in the end delivers good entertainment and closure.
I'M ALLERGIC TO LAXATIVES
nogodnomasters21 November 2018
Warning: Spoilers
Ray Jenkins (Angus Sampson) repairs TVs and is a bit of a dullard. In 1983 while the Royal Perth Yacht Club was giving a yachting lesson to their American counterparts, Ray wins a trip to Thailand. Ray's stepfather (Geoff Morrell) has some gambling debts and Ray reluctantly agrees to act as a mule to pay said debts. Ray swallows 20 condoms filled with heroin and gets nailed at the border. He is locked in a motel room until he releases his bowels. With an attorney (Georgina Haig) attempting to spring him, Ray is in a race against biology.
This is an interesting low budget film. Most of the "action" takes place in a motel room. There is stuff going on around him, such as the drug dealers reaction and that of his parents. The film is a crime drama. The "comedy" aspect is not due to any kind of humor or irony, but simply because of the crudeness of the subject matter.
Okay film for someone who watches a lot of crime dramas.
Guide: F-bomb. No sex or nudity.
This is an interesting low budget film. Most of the "action" takes place in a motel room. There is stuff going on around him, such as the drug dealers reaction and that of his parents. The film is a crime drama. The "comedy" aspect is not due to any kind of humor or irony, but simply because of the crudeness of the subject matter.
Okay film for someone who watches a lot of crime dramas.
Guide: F-bomb. No sex or nudity.
Bringing new meaning to 'anal retentive' filmmaking
basil19849 April 2014
Warning: Spoilers
*Spoilers* If the worth of a film is measured in its audience's response, the woman dry-heaving next to me definitely got her money's worth. Set in 1983, a working class simpleton, Ray Jenkins - played by co-director Angus Sampson ('Insidious' / '100 Bloody Acres')- is detained in at a West Australia airport upon returning home from Bangkok where he was convinced to ingest and transport 20 condoms full of heroin. The initial tone of the film signals that this might be a comedy of some sort but any sense of humor is swiftly lost as a cruel group of police officers (lead by Hugo Weaving in one of his most intimidating rolls to date) starts (let's say) 'pressing progress' toward resolving the case as Ray struggles to 'postpone the discovery' of his guilt – lots of innuendo here - throughout 10 days of observation. Along the way, Ray's circumstance results in a domino effect that uncovers crimes far larger than his own. I couldn't stay for the Q&A but the film is presented as having been based on true events and, as unbelievable as it was, I never questioned it for a moment. Though Google provides a slew of 1983 Australian drug smugglers, I can't find a single reference to these events and, as much as I liked this film, if they pulled a 'Fargo' on me, I adore it. Co-directors Tony Mahoney & Angus Sampson bring new meaning to anal retentive with this very different sort of horror film.
Let it out
Prismark1023 March 2017
The Mule also known as The Smuggler is a nice, offbeat crime thriller with some black comedy.
It is set in 1983 as as Australia II is making a robust challenge for the Americas Cup Competition.
Nice but dim Ray (Angus Sampson) has been set up to have a trip to Thailand with his football team. In fact the club president who has a sideline in criminal activities plans to have Ray set up as a drugs mule. Ray swallows condoms full of heroine but is detained by the police when he returns to Australia.
He is questioned by detectives. Tom Croft (Hugo Weaving) and Les Paris (Ewen Leslie) who play bad cop and good cop respectively. Croft roughs Ray up but Ray decides not to pass anything through his body much to the detectives displeasure. Also the local criminals are not happy and reckon Ray will grass them up.
The film has a heavy dose of toilet humour as Ray tries to stop himself from defecating. For such as simple tale, the writers have packed quiet a lot of plot and deliver it with a crafty way.
It is set in 1983 as as Australia II is making a robust challenge for the Americas Cup Competition.
Nice but dim Ray (Angus Sampson) has been set up to have a trip to Thailand with his football team. In fact the club president who has a sideline in criminal activities plans to have Ray set up as a drugs mule. Ray swallows condoms full of heroine but is detained by the police when he returns to Australia.
He is questioned by detectives. Tom Croft (Hugo Weaving) and Les Paris (Ewen Leslie) who play bad cop and good cop respectively. Croft roughs Ray up but Ray decides not to pass anything through his body much to the detectives displeasure. Also the local criminals are not happy and reckon Ray will grass them up.
The film has a heavy dose of toilet humour as Ray tries to stop himself from defecating. For such as simple tale, the writers have packed quiet a lot of plot and deliver it with a crafty way.
Surprisingly good
kosmasp7 December 2014
The title is a bit of a giveaway, but only so much. Because the movie might still be able to surprise you. I know it did surprise me a lot. To a certain point it was like "Alright, I know what comes next". But then you have a twist that is very nice. And even though a certain amount of knowledge comes with that and a familiarity that will have people in the know again, it is certainly entertaining. Considering that this really happened (similar to what we get treated to on screen), this is even more amazing.
The actors are having a lot of fun and everything is being laid there for everyone to see. Some material might feel a bit too much, but you can still feel that there is a logic behind it and even the most yucky scene is served for a purpose ... and for fun - and it works most of the time.
The actors are having a lot of fun and everything is being laid there for everyone to see. Some material might feel a bit too much, but you can still feel that there is a logic behind it and even the most yucky scene is served for a purpose ... and for fun - and it works most of the time.
Will he poop or will he not?
santiagocosme2 January 2015
An average man goes to Thailand after winning a holiday through his football team's lottery. What he does not know is that he is being set up and the purpose of his trip is to bring drugs into Australia. When he finally gets back to down under, the police gets hold of him as they suspect he might be smuggling cocaine or heroine into the country. Since he refuses to have an X Ray taken, he is kept in police custody in a hotel room for about 10 days.
Whether or not this sounds like an interesting subject to you, from the fifteenth minute until the end, the only thing you see is a man lying in bed who makes the utmost effort to not go to the loo while the police wait by his bed. Nothing else happens. If you don't believe me, watch it. When you do, you'll agree that the movie should have been called "The longest poop refusal". And as a subject for a movie, after a few minutes it's start to get a little boring. It it's really based on real events, then the original story is not good enough to make it into a film. Sorry!
Whether or not this sounds like an interesting subject to you, from the fifteenth minute until the end, the only thing you see is a man lying in bed who makes the utmost effort to not go to the loo while the police wait by his bed. Nothing else happens. If you don't believe me, watch it. When you do, you'll agree that the movie should have been called "The longest poop refusal". And as a subject for a movie, after a few minutes it's start to get a little boring. It it's really based on real events, then the original story is not good enough to make it into a film. Sorry!
Aussie drug trafficking tale based on actual events
t-dooley-69-38691617 March 2016
This is a really well made film; the plot surrounds Ray who is a bit on the 'slow' side. He plays a bit of 'footie' at his local club and mends electrical goods for a living. Still at home with his parents who are having financial problems. So when he gets made an offer by one of his closest mates to earn some easy cash – he decides to go for it.
It involves a trip to Thailand and more importantly a return trip with a rather full stomach. What follows is a story that had me totally gripped. There are some truly disgusting scenes here too so really make sure you are nowhere near food while this is on – and for a while after.
The acting is all top notch - Ray is played brilliantly by Angus Samson ('Fargo') but the real plaudits have to go to the perfectly horrible cop – Det. Tom Croft played by the superb Hugo Weaving ('Mystery Road') who oozes bad cop in a way that balances sleaze with old school policing and the tension is pounding for most of thisthriller – completely recommended.
It involves a trip to Thailand and more importantly a return trip with a rather full stomach. What follows is a story that had me totally gripped. There are some truly disgusting scenes here too so really make sure you are nowhere near food while this is on – and for a while after.
The acting is all top notch - Ray is played brilliantly by Angus Samson ('Fargo') but the real plaudits have to go to the perfectly horrible cop – Det. Tom Croft played by the superb Hugo Weaving ('Mystery Road') who oozes bad cop in a way that balances sleaze with old school policing and the tension is pounding for most of thisthriller – completely recommended.
It doesn't integrate the humour and violence as seamlessly as Angus Sampson's other recent work like 100 Bloody Acres
Likes_Ninjas9019 November 2014
Warning: Spoilers
To be a great underdog story, The Mule needed a character to admire. The best underdog stories are fables about heroes where we share their victories. Underdog stories have become synonymous with Australian cinema despite universal relevancy. One of the most popular underdog stories in Australian film history is The Castle, which celebrated the value of the home and the family unit against the government. It was Biblical, a David and Goliath story. The new Australian crime film The Mule aims, squats, lower. It's about how long a man can contain his bowels. To be fair, it's not the first Australia comic film to get its hands dirty. Kenny, a diamond in the roughage, was about a man who cleaned toilets to support his son. There's plenty of clenching in The Mule, much of it intentionally painful, but unlike the aforementioned films it's not funny. Big laughs may still not have resolved the limited story and tonal problems.
The film takes place in 1983 and parallels the America's Cup yacht race where Australia miraculously stole a victory. During this period a sad sack named Ray (Angus Sampson) is living at home in the Melbourne suburbs with his mum Judy (Noni Hazlehurst) and stepdad John O'Hara (Geoff Morrell). Ray is named clubman of the year for his local football team and asked by his friend Gavin (Leigh Whannell) if he'll travel with him to Bangkok. While reluctant, Ray is persuaded to smuggle a kilogram of heroin back into Australia by swallowing twenty condoms. They are bringing the drugs back for Pat Shepherd (John Noble), who not only runs the football team but is connected to Asian criminals and sends a henchman to intimidate John for his gambling debts. While trying to evade airport security with the drugs in his stomach, Ray is caught by the police and put in a hotel room. He's overseen by two Australian Federal Police: Les Paris (Ewen Leslie) and Tom Croft (Hugo Weaving). The latter taunts and beats him for refusing to defecate. He must contain his bowels for at least seven days but risks conviction if he empties them twice in this time.
The original story was conceived by Jaime Browne after reading an article about a smuggler who refused to defecate and his own experiences of working in a printing factory where people discussed smuggling drugs. Scribed by Sampson and Leigh Whannell, the screenplay's major plot line is a journey limited in spatiality, movement and scope. Once inside the hotel room the dramatisation of Ray's physical endurance isn't exactly comparable to a great piece of athleticism and his character arc is a generic transition from an immobile loser to outsmarting the police through minor sabotage of a beer bottle and television set. Other than one hangdog expression and his believable physical discomfort, Angus Sampson's performance is muted and unassisted by flimsy characterisation. More dialogue might have helped to realise the desires and goals of his character. Attempts to mount the tension onto the physicality of his dilemma are provided by police beatings and also grotesque torture-like situations like when Ray must swallow the drugs again. Evidently, this is Whannell's horror writer background coming to fruition, having previously written several Saw films, which also tested the pain threshold of the body.
But with contrasting authors working on the script, there's tonal discomfort in where the film lies. First-time filmmaker Tony Mahony and his co-director Sampson have instructed the actors to rely on a deadpan and exaggerated acting style, rather than naturalism, to build the comic mood. Hugo Weaving's over the top cop Croft and Pat's heavy who speaks limited English are examples of caricatures employed for comedic effect. Similarly, stereotypes are another technique used for humour but the characters only possess an extra dimension because of far-fetched plot twists, particularly one involving the detectives. The laughs and potential comedy are drowned out by the brutality Whannell is familiar with from the horror movies. The murders and bodies pile up outside the hotel room as a crime subplot expands the limitations of the main narrative. Along with Ray's enormous physical pain, courtesy of the police beatings, some of the external deaths wouldn't be out of place from a straight crime film. It doesn't integrate the humour and violence as seamlessly as Angus Sampson's other recent work like 100 Bloody Acres.
The time period of 1983 serves two thin purposes: referencing the underdog theme through the America's Cup race and broad underdeveloped symmetry to the greed of the era. The major through-line is how everyone works for somebody else and driven by money. But the silent way it introduces Ray's desires for a better life, like the small home in the suburbs and the loving mother, are clichés Australian films have relied too frequently upon rather than specifically contextual to the 80s. It is unusual to have set the film in the past when drug smuggling today, through people like Schapelle Corby, has become topical. Such indecision is echoed in the film's lack of dramatic purpose and coda. Is its message don't smuggle drugs? Outlast the police as long as possible? Wait for gangsters to get their comeuppance? If the reason why this film isn't releasing at the cinema, it's available on DVD and digital platforms only, is due to its weak message or because the film's backers were unsure of how to market the film as a dark comedy or crime story then I sympathise with their decision.
The film takes place in 1983 and parallels the America's Cup yacht race where Australia miraculously stole a victory. During this period a sad sack named Ray (Angus Sampson) is living at home in the Melbourne suburbs with his mum Judy (Noni Hazlehurst) and stepdad John O'Hara (Geoff Morrell). Ray is named clubman of the year for his local football team and asked by his friend Gavin (Leigh Whannell) if he'll travel with him to Bangkok. While reluctant, Ray is persuaded to smuggle a kilogram of heroin back into Australia by swallowing twenty condoms. They are bringing the drugs back for Pat Shepherd (John Noble), who not only runs the football team but is connected to Asian criminals and sends a henchman to intimidate John for his gambling debts. While trying to evade airport security with the drugs in his stomach, Ray is caught by the police and put in a hotel room. He's overseen by two Australian Federal Police: Les Paris (Ewen Leslie) and Tom Croft (Hugo Weaving). The latter taunts and beats him for refusing to defecate. He must contain his bowels for at least seven days but risks conviction if he empties them twice in this time.
The original story was conceived by Jaime Browne after reading an article about a smuggler who refused to defecate and his own experiences of working in a printing factory where people discussed smuggling drugs. Scribed by Sampson and Leigh Whannell, the screenplay's major plot line is a journey limited in spatiality, movement and scope. Once inside the hotel room the dramatisation of Ray's physical endurance isn't exactly comparable to a great piece of athleticism and his character arc is a generic transition from an immobile loser to outsmarting the police through minor sabotage of a beer bottle and television set. Other than one hangdog expression and his believable physical discomfort, Angus Sampson's performance is muted and unassisted by flimsy characterisation. More dialogue might have helped to realise the desires and goals of his character. Attempts to mount the tension onto the physicality of his dilemma are provided by police beatings and also grotesque torture-like situations like when Ray must swallow the drugs again. Evidently, this is Whannell's horror writer background coming to fruition, having previously written several Saw films, which also tested the pain threshold of the body.
But with contrasting authors working on the script, there's tonal discomfort in where the film lies. First-time filmmaker Tony Mahony and his co-director Sampson have instructed the actors to rely on a deadpan and exaggerated acting style, rather than naturalism, to build the comic mood. Hugo Weaving's over the top cop Croft and Pat's heavy who speaks limited English are examples of caricatures employed for comedic effect. Similarly, stereotypes are another technique used for humour but the characters only possess an extra dimension because of far-fetched plot twists, particularly one involving the detectives. The laughs and potential comedy are drowned out by the brutality Whannell is familiar with from the horror movies. The murders and bodies pile up outside the hotel room as a crime subplot expands the limitations of the main narrative. Along with Ray's enormous physical pain, courtesy of the police beatings, some of the external deaths wouldn't be out of place from a straight crime film. It doesn't integrate the humour and violence as seamlessly as Angus Sampson's other recent work like 100 Bloody Acres.
The time period of 1983 serves two thin purposes: referencing the underdog theme through the America's Cup race and broad underdeveloped symmetry to the greed of the era. The major through-line is how everyone works for somebody else and driven by money. But the silent way it introduces Ray's desires for a better life, like the small home in the suburbs and the loving mother, are clichés Australian films have relied too frequently upon rather than specifically contextual to the 80s. It is unusual to have set the film in the past when drug smuggling today, through people like Schapelle Corby, has become topical. Such indecision is echoed in the film's lack of dramatic purpose and coda. Is its message don't smuggle drugs? Outlast the police as long as possible? Wait for gangsters to get their comeuppance? If the reason why this film isn't releasing at the cinema, it's available on DVD and digital platforms only, is due to its weak message or because the film's backers were unsure of how to market the film as a dark comedy or crime story then I sympathise with their decision.
Australian Black/Comedy that should NOT be overlooked
malbanese22 November 2014
When people form opinions about Australian Cinema, they generally base that opinion on previous Australian films with successful backgrounds, i.e.; Animal Kingdom, Chopper etc. What Angus Sampson has created here is a fantastic, moody, brooding black comedy/drama that surpasses most of the tripe that comes out of the US and Australia, but also that stands alone as a film that really works on all levels. Ignore Sampson's past achievements in the form of 100 Bloody Acres and the Insidious franchise etc. This film is a winner, and it's completely different. It is a stand alone film that pulls all the right triggers at all the right times. Sampson, having written, produced, starred and co-directed shines here as a shy and humble first time drug mule. His reluctance to be a participant in the smuggling leads to his fumbling through airport gates leading him to a minor cavity search that lands him locked up in a hotel for 7 days, guarded by Federal Police, waiting for the contents to pass through. The premise has been done before, however Angus Sampson brings the character to life and watching him hold on to number 2's for days is both uncomfortable and hilarious. This film is by no means a comedy. But throughout the film, the banality of simple Australians can't be helped but laughed at as they stumble through the complications of their lives. This film is a great Aussie crime drama that will stand up to the test of time like Animal Kingdom and Two Hands.
Definitely worth the watch and Angus Sampson is also one to watch in the future.
Definitely worth the watch and Angus Sampson is also one to watch in the future.
Realistic,Great acting and Video direction.GREAT movie.
innovatingvisionary9 December 2014
Simple and to the point. It's about a man who is suspected of importing drugs, and the police need him to take a $h*t so they have evidence to prove their suspicions..they are allowed to take him to a hospital for an x ray, but decide to take him to a hotel and wait it out(until he takes a **** )....They can keep him for ten days. He's smuggling a known drug dealers heroin batch, and the drug dealer is out looking for him and his friend.The camera work is fantastic, the acting is great, and the dialog is catchy.. watch it, you wont regret it.
'The Mule' is a fresh and original 'drug mule' centered film, that will both make you laugh and sick at the same time. I couldn't get enough of it.
bryank-0484412 August 2015
Warning: Spoilers
We've seen our fair share of 'drug mule' films over the years. Everything from Nicolas Winding Refn's 'Pusher' to 1996's 'Drug Mule' to 2004's Oscar nominated film 'Maria Full of Grace', and even last year's 'Lucy' that starred Scarlett Johansson. But we haven't seen anything quite like 'The Mule'. Written by Leigh Whannel and Angus Sampson (both from the 'Insidious' franchise), this drug fueled film is quite comical and abundantly gross.
With all all-star cast including both Whannel and Sampson, Hugo Weaving, and John Noble, 'The Mule' should keep your attention and keep you laughing, if not squirming in your seat. Most 'drug mule' films follow a poor unfortunate soul who has dozens of condom wrapped drugs in their body, as they pass through airport security to their next stop without getting caught. However here, 'The Mule' presents a different type of situation.
Set in 1983 during the American Cup Yacht Competition, a group of people at a bar are betting and having fun watching the contest. Club President Pat (John Noble) has secured enough funds to take his team to Bangkok, but he has secretly fixed the Clubman of the Year contest so that the friendly yet dumb Ray (Sampson) would win this year. In fact, President Pat is also into gambling, loan sharking, and other forms of criminal activity including the drug trade. His goal is to use Ray as a drug mule for heroine, by telling him that his father owes him money and threatening his mother.
Once Ray swallows the dozens of condoms full of heroine, you'd think that he would pass through airport security fine, as we've seen in other film over the years. But just like Ray said to his childhood friend Gavin (Whannel) who works for Pat, "I won't be any good at this." And he isn't. Ray is quickly picked up by airport security for looking nervous and suspicious. The standard over-the-top bad cop/good cop duo comes in Detective Tom Croft (Hugo Weaving) and Les Paris (Ewen Leslie) to question Ray.
Back in the 80s, the laws in Australia said that authorities could keep you for a week under tight scrutiny to see if the drugs come out. And that is where 'The Mule' takes us. A week long of literal gut wrenching and messy instances as we say Ray try to keep the heroine inside his stomach while being beaten, and eating for a week without doing his business. If you have stomach problems or are easily sick, you might want to cover your eyes a few times here.
Whannel and Sampson have perfectly crafted a highly entertaining story where each character has something they're hiding, which turns up towards the end. Each character's story arc is engaging and comical, even if things end tragically. Sampson does an exquisite job of playing the dolt who is forced into a horrible situation, but stays loyal. And Hugo Weaving plays the deranges police detective who is not above torturing and beating his suspects is one of the best parts of the film. Every time he's on screen, you don't want him to leave, even if he is a bad guy.
'The Mule' is a fresh and original 'drug mule' centered film, that will both make you laugh and sick at the same time. I couldn't get enough of it.
With all all-star cast including both Whannel and Sampson, Hugo Weaving, and John Noble, 'The Mule' should keep your attention and keep you laughing, if not squirming in your seat. Most 'drug mule' films follow a poor unfortunate soul who has dozens of condom wrapped drugs in their body, as they pass through airport security to their next stop without getting caught. However here, 'The Mule' presents a different type of situation.
Set in 1983 during the American Cup Yacht Competition, a group of people at a bar are betting and having fun watching the contest. Club President Pat (John Noble) has secured enough funds to take his team to Bangkok, but he has secretly fixed the Clubman of the Year contest so that the friendly yet dumb Ray (Sampson) would win this year. In fact, President Pat is also into gambling, loan sharking, and other forms of criminal activity including the drug trade. His goal is to use Ray as a drug mule for heroine, by telling him that his father owes him money and threatening his mother.
Once Ray swallows the dozens of condoms full of heroine, you'd think that he would pass through airport security fine, as we've seen in other film over the years. But just like Ray said to his childhood friend Gavin (Whannel) who works for Pat, "I won't be any good at this." And he isn't. Ray is quickly picked up by airport security for looking nervous and suspicious. The standard over-the-top bad cop/good cop duo comes in Detective Tom Croft (Hugo Weaving) and Les Paris (Ewen Leslie) to question Ray.
Back in the 80s, the laws in Australia said that authorities could keep you for a week under tight scrutiny to see if the drugs come out. And that is where 'The Mule' takes us. A week long of literal gut wrenching and messy instances as we say Ray try to keep the heroine inside his stomach while being beaten, and eating for a week without doing his business. If you have stomach problems or are easily sick, you might want to cover your eyes a few times here.
Whannel and Sampson have perfectly crafted a highly entertaining story where each character has something they're hiding, which turns up towards the end. Each character's story arc is engaging and comical, even if things end tragically. Sampson does an exquisite job of playing the dolt who is forced into a horrible situation, but stays loyal. And Hugo Weaving plays the deranges police detective who is not above torturing and beating his suspects is one of the best parts of the film. Every time he's on screen, you don't want him to leave, even if he is a bad guy.
'The Mule' is a fresh and original 'drug mule' centered film, that will both make you laugh and sick at the same time. I couldn't get enough of it.
Mislabeled
C-Diggety-Dawg5 April 2021
Another overlooked Aussie gem that'll have you bursting!!
Sleepin_Dragon12 October 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Boy is this an unusual film, inspired by true life events.
Melbourne 1983, we meet Ray Jenkins, a quiet chap very much still tied to his mother's apron. The film starts off with him detained by customs, set to undergo a physical examination, they're looking for crack (haha.) It skips back two weeks, shows how he was bullied into becoming a drugs mule. Very impressionable and malleable, Ray is sent out to Thailand with his team mates, pretty much for one sole reason. Refusing a medical Ray is detained in a hotel under house arrest, under constant Police watch, while they wait for him to pass the drugs naturally. He's ultimately held for 12 days, and all those around him have different interests in him being able to pass the evidence.
This is such an unusual film, it definitely gets better as it goes on, it features some truly horrific scenes, the early, soft tone of the movie puts you off your guard, some of the scenes that follow are truly unexpected and unpleasant.
Plenty of unexpected twists throughout. It's so satisfying on so many levels.
There are elements of humour, to me they seem a little unnecessary, a little out of place, they didn't really need to be there, but the rest of the film is so watchable, credit to Angus Sampson, previously seen in Insidious he gave a brilliant, watchable performance.
Ultimately very satisfying. 8/10
Melbourne 1983, we meet Ray Jenkins, a quiet chap very much still tied to his mother's apron. The film starts off with him detained by customs, set to undergo a physical examination, they're looking for crack (haha.) It skips back two weeks, shows how he was bullied into becoming a drugs mule. Very impressionable and malleable, Ray is sent out to Thailand with his team mates, pretty much for one sole reason. Refusing a medical Ray is detained in a hotel under house arrest, under constant Police watch, while they wait for him to pass the drugs naturally. He's ultimately held for 12 days, and all those around him have different interests in him being able to pass the evidence.
This is such an unusual film, it definitely gets better as it goes on, it features some truly horrific scenes, the early, soft tone of the movie puts you off your guard, some of the scenes that follow are truly unexpected and unpleasant.
Plenty of unexpected twists throughout. It's so satisfying on so many levels.
There are elements of humour, to me they seem a little unnecessary, a little out of place, they didn't really need to be there, but the rest of the film is so watchable, credit to Angus Sampson, previously seen in Insidious he gave a brilliant, watchable performance.
Ultimately very satisfying. 8/10
An Affront to the Idea of Films and Film-making
ndnapo25 May 2015
Warning: Spoilers
**SPOILER ALERT**
The Mule is not funny, it's not entertaining, it's neither engaging, nor well-written and as an audience member I was not interested in what happened to the main character. In fact about half-way through I was hoping it actually is possible for someone to die from not being able to pass stools. I'm not being gross here, that is what the movie is about, a drug Mule, trying not to pass stools, so that he won't get caught by the Australian Federal Police.
The acting by the main character, Angus Sampson, is below par. And not even the extraordinary Hugo Weaving could lift this appalling script and it's scant premise from the gutter that it wallowed in.
I know it's attempting to be a black comedy, but it lacked both the finesse and comedic characters or dialog to ever be either.
With so many incredible stories coming out of Australia this film is an embarrassment to see out there in the world.
Like the premise of this film the viewing experience of watching The Mule is like being made to swallow a steaming pile of excrement, again and again and again.
Do yourself a favor, watch ANYTHING else instead.
The Mule is not funny, it's not entertaining, it's neither engaging, nor well-written and as an audience member I was not interested in what happened to the main character. In fact about half-way through I was hoping it actually is possible for someone to die from not being able to pass stools. I'm not being gross here, that is what the movie is about, a drug Mule, trying not to pass stools, so that he won't get caught by the Australian Federal Police.
The acting by the main character, Angus Sampson, is below par. And not even the extraordinary Hugo Weaving could lift this appalling script and it's scant premise from the gutter that it wallowed in.
I know it's attempting to be a black comedy, but it lacked both the finesse and comedic characters or dialog to ever be either.
With so many incredible stories coming out of Australia this film is an embarrassment to see out there in the world.
Like the premise of this film the viewing experience of watching The Mule is like being made to swallow a steaming pile of excrement, again and again and again.
Do yourself a favor, watch ANYTHING else instead.
Great story, great acting, must see!!
joiningjt21 August 2020
This is a team from the insidious franchise so yous think horror but no not this time this black comedy is a very fun and worth your time film to see. Great ending to a really good story and based on actual events so even better!!
Ruined by the leading man.
valleyjohn20 May 2015
he Mule is another one of the quirky and odd Australian movies that are released every year that involves characters who are way over the top . This the the story of a football player who is coerced into going to Thailand to bring back heroin inside his body and when he gets back he is hauled up in a hotel room by police who wait til the packages come out naturally. I think this is supposed to be a black comedy but i don't remember laughing once. The lead actor has a face you want to smack and there is only so much of his grimacing you can put up with. It's obviously not a movie that takes itself too seriously but falls down due to casting problems. It's not terrible but it's not a film i could recommend either.
4 out of 10
4 out of 10
No bog standard film
jldowsing20 August 2021
On the back of the Insidious horror series, Leigh Whannell and Angus Sampson share the screen (and writing duties) again for an insidious horror of a different kind, one that's actually real for almost every human on the planet who appreciates the pain of severe constipation, or alternately that of holding the beast bashing at the door, promising to unleash hell.
Cleverly aligned with the underdog story and slow aching crawl and tension of the Americas Cup yacht race as a backdrop, it's a shame The Mule was erroneously positioned as a comedy. Inspired by a true drug importation scenario, The Mule manages to hold attention through a solid, genre-crossing screenplay and acting performances.
The at-times extreme grossness of the central premise won't be to everyone's taste, not least a scene where the mule (played by Angus Sampson) re-ingests his cargo with such excruciating effect viewers like me might want to repurpose their bucket of popcorn.
An entertaining and engaging Aussie flick, The Mule is worth holding on for until the satisfying end.
Cleverly aligned with the underdog story and slow aching crawl and tension of the Americas Cup yacht race as a backdrop, it's a shame The Mule was erroneously positioned as a comedy. Inspired by a true drug importation scenario, The Mule manages to hold attention through a solid, genre-crossing screenplay and acting performances.
The at-times extreme grossness of the central premise won't be to everyone's taste, not least a scene where the mule (played by Angus Sampson) re-ingests his cargo with such excruciating effect viewers like me might want to repurpose their bucket of popcorn.
An entertaining and engaging Aussie flick, The Mule is worth holding on for until the satisfying end.
Be ready for an upset stomach
b_alexis_a13 August 2023
Ok movie (5/10) but at times revolting, so much so we all felt physically sick. It's entertaining enough if you've got nothing else to watch, but wouldn't really recommend it. But overall predictable and a little cringey.
Ok movie (5/10) but at times revolting, so much so we all felt physically sick. It's entertaining enough if you've got nothing else to watch, but wouldn't really recommend it. But overall predictable and a little cringey.
Ok movie (5/10) but at times revolting, so much so we all felt physically sick. It's entertaining enough if you've got nothing else to watch, but wouldn't really recommend it. But overall predictable and a little cringey.
Ok movie (5/10) but at times revolting, so much so we all felt physically sick. It's entertaining enough if you've got nothing else to watch, but wouldn't really recommend it. But overall predictable and a little cringey.
Ok movie (5/10) but at times revolting, so much so we all felt physically sick. It's entertaining enough if you've got nothing else to watch, but wouldn't really recommend it. But overall predictable and a little cringey.
A Clever and Joyous Crime-Drama
bryce-keaton8 December 2014
Tony Mahony and star Angus Sampson tag team this oddball crime-drama that is sure to show audiences an intelligent plot, well acted characters, and no shortage of humor. The characters are all lovable in their own unique ways due to the performances from...well everyone, really. The characters, plot, and cinematography show a healthy mix of influence from the Coen Brothers ("Fargo," "Raising Arizona"), Wes Anderson ("The Grand Budapest Hotel"), and even AMC's "Breaking Bad."
Reading a quick synopsis or plot summary of this film will reflect poorly on the actual depth and cleverness of it all. Despite the seemingly simple and goofy (maybe even downright stupid) story of a man trying not to crap his pants for seven days because he swallowed drugs, "The Mule" is sure to impress audiences with its suspense and unfolding plot. Watching this movie is like being in a room with a time bomb; you don't know when it's going to blow, you can't escape it, and the bomb just happens to be a man doing his very best to not defecate himself.
Angus Sampson, an actor who usually prefers to stay out of the spotlight, shines in his role as Ray Jenkins, a quiet, introverted, momma's boy, soccer player who finds himself making the wrong decisions for the right reasons. John Noble plays as this Australian town's cut- throat kingpin. Hugo Weaving and Ewen Leslie are the typical "bad cop - good cop" detective duo that keep us guessing as to whether they want to help Ray through this or (quite literally) beat the **** out of him.
While I'm sure this movie will receive low scores because of how "drawn out" it may seem or because of...well..."shock factor"... I urge fans of crime-dramas and thrillers to see this film. You will be pleased with its twists and turns right up until the happy ending.
Reading a quick synopsis or plot summary of this film will reflect poorly on the actual depth and cleverness of it all. Despite the seemingly simple and goofy (maybe even downright stupid) story of a man trying not to crap his pants for seven days because he swallowed drugs, "The Mule" is sure to impress audiences with its suspense and unfolding plot. Watching this movie is like being in a room with a time bomb; you don't know when it's going to blow, you can't escape it, and the bomb just happens to be a man doing his very best to not defecate himself.
Angus Sampson, an actor who usually prefers to stay out of the spotlight, shines in his role as Ray Jenkins, a quiet, introverted, momma's boy, soccer player who finds himself making the wrong decisions for the right reasons. John Noble plays as this Australian town's cut- throat kingpin. Hugo Weaving and Ewen Leslie are the typical "bad cop - good cop" detective duo that keep us guessing as to whether they want to help Ray through this or (quite literally) beat the **** out of him.
While I'm sure this movie will receive low scores because of how "drawn out" it may seem or because of...well..."shock factor"... I urge fans of crime-dramas and thrillers to see this film. You will be pleased with its twists and turns right up until the happy ending.
Gets better as the story goes along !
cekadah31 December 2014
This is one of those rarely seen movies that just leaves and indelible image in your mind! There are some horrific scenes that are totally unexpected.
The story is a little slow to start but once the hotel part starts you will be stuck to the screen. There are some truly despicable characters to deal with and you will wonder how this will finish.
The dialog and writing becomes more wonderful as the story progresses. I do not want to insert a spoiler because this movie was totally unknown to me and I wasn't expecting much. It delivered more than I ever expected and it's a crime/action surprise.
The story is a little slow to start but once the hotel part starts you will be stuck to the screen. There are some truly despicable characters to deal with and you will wonder how this will finish.
The dialog and writing becomes more wonderful as the story progresses. I do not want to insert a spoiler because this movie was totally unknown to me and I wasn't expecting much. It delivered more than I ever expected and it's a crime/action surprise.
Revolutionary
crystalsawadam24 November 2014
Brilliantly made film, best independent indie film of 2014. The film was great from start to finish, very engaging and highly enjoyable for all. The lines were not only sarcastic and serious but also extremely comical at points. The directing was done perfectly and showed the audience the lovable character that is a typical mummy's boy as we followed him on his drug-induced journey that was highly enjoyable.
The acting was phenomenal and literally has you mouth opened at several point sin the film because it is just that shocking. A beautifully produced film and highly enjoyable for anyone to watch. Would definitely recommend this to anyone. 10/10.
The acting was phenomenal and literally has you mouth opened at several point sin the film because it is just that shocking. A beautifully produced film and highly enjoyable for anyone to watch. Would definitely recommend this to anyone. 10/10.
The Tortured Underbelly of the Drug War
in198427 November 2014
8.8 of 10. Taking the elements of gross-out humor and applying it to a crime drama/thriller provides something new, insightful, scary, and amusing, but does require a strong stomach.
The grossing-out starts quickly, so there's very little time to prep yourself. Just when you think the gross stuff is easing up, something more subtly gross from real life gets introduced. As a result, the film is continually immersive while still providing no shortage of strange situations.
The characters and actors also do an exceptional job of providing the yucks. There's only 1 attractive main character with the rest being disgusting in either or both form and action. It all builds up to smart and surprising ending that should also impress crime mystery lovers.
The grossing-out starts quickly, so there's very little time to prep yourself. Just when you think the gross stuff is easing up, something more subtly gross from real life gets introduced. As a result, the film is continually immersive while still providing no shortage of strange situations.
The characters and actors also do an exceptional job of providing the yucks. There's only 1 attractive main character with the rest being disgusting in either or both form and action. It all builds up to smart and surprising ending that should also impress crime mystery lovers.
This movie is an instruction manual on not to be a mule
rasgeoff6 June 2015
This was a really great movie - a unique story told mostly in the bed of a hotel room . There is no sex but some violence. Our mule does not speak much but that the point. Mules are not very smart -they are good and carrying though. The cops are cast well and the Australian production is very enjoyable. I would caution anyone watching this film to not eat any food during the film. The mule's mum and dad play there parts so well and the mob boss who is wound up with aggression -its just a matter of time before someone gets waked. I think the Mule's boss is badly stereotyped as the Jewish TV repair owner,but he is so funny and callous when he wont allow the Mule to take his 30 minute lunch - The Mule quits and owner says Come back - take 35 minutes for lunch. This movie is full of wit and humor while it deals with a very deadly subject.
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