Powderburn

"It's a real pleasure to see an Australian action thriller work so well, with its clearheaded objective to engage and entertain. Genre films are rare in Australia, but the debate about why belongs elsewhere. Stephen Prime proves we can make our own, with our own flavours, colours and identifiably Australian elements. There is no attempt to somehow manufacture an 'international' film - it just works on its own terms, precisely because it is bedded in the Australian ethos. Prime constantly gives us reasons to keep watching, and the film pivots on its strong female lead character, boldly portrayed by the well-named Blazey Best as Chrisie. Best is in good company with top notch supports, especially the exotic Olivia Pigeot as the other key female character, Lily. The cast work well together with a tight script and Prime directs with natural flair, occasionally adding stylistic editing touches (especially early in the film) which contribute to the overall edginess. Budgeted at over $1.3 million, Powder Burn was actually made on determination and deferrals (and a wise pay tv rights acquisition from Premium Movie Partnership, on Foxtel), plus $200,000 from private investors, which it ought to recoup. Prime and his team have made an enjoyable and watchable thriller; they should make some more." Andrew L. Urban