The Boys Are Back is a film that you can come away smiling from or come away puzzled from. Why? Keep reading.

Release Date: January 26, 2010
Running Time: 104 minutes
Rating: PG 13

The story of this irreverent and independent sportswriter who suddenly faces single fatherhood is inspired by the true story of Australian Simon Carr, The Boys are Back is an original and uplifting story of one family’s journey. Exclusive bonus features include a behind-the-scenes photographic tour and a visit with the three special guys who lived the story.

Clive Owen (Closer, Duplicity) heads up an accomplished cast that includes Laura Fraser (A Knight’s Tale), Emma Booth (TV’s “The Circuit”) and George MacKay (Defiance). Directed by Scott Hicks (Shine), The Boys Are Back is a 2009 Heartland Truly Moving Picture Award winner that won the hearts of critics everywhere including Peter Travers of Rolling Stone who calls it “A funny, touching and vital film…Clive Owen gives a heartfelt, award-caliber performance.”

The Boys Are Back, adapted from the novel “The Boys are Back in Town” by Simon Carr aims to be a touching, heartwarming drama but in the end there is not enough empathy to truly appreciate the film adaptation. Joe (Clive Owen) was never a present father and even when he becomes a single father after the death of his wife, he doesn’t really ever try to be a responsible father. All it takes is one moment in the bathroom between him and his youngest son, Artie when Joe lets him dive into the tub for things to go downhill.

Joe aims to be free spirited, living life with hardly any rules but this quickly turns his 2 boys into irresponsible and disrespectful children. Artie specifically seemed to be a bit of a spoiled brat prior to, and afterwords…I’m afraid that every time these kids act out their mother’s death is an excuse for it and it’s okay. He asked his older son, Harry to do chores, Harry has a breakdown because he doesn’t want to and breaks all of the dishes in the kitchen, and then Joe apologies? No, that is not okay. Neither is the fact that this film either moves at a slow pace or there is something about the tone that makes the film seem dull. This may affect if you choose to watch the film.

The first time I put this film in the DVD player, I didn’t make it to the end. But 2 weeks later, I tried again and pushed myself to focus and the film is mediocre at best. This is not Clive Owen’s best role, though his effort is very much appreciated. There just seemed to be something lost in adaptation…at least I hope. I hope the true story is much more interesting, relatable, and less harsh in terms of the way these kids were acting. There are a few moments that you will laugh at but for the most part, you may just be covering your mouth and shaking your head. One thing is for sure, the film was shot in Australia, and as you can tell on screen, it is incredibly beautiful. Good job in capturing Australia. Honestly, if you weren’t captivated by the trailer of the film, you are better off skipping this film. I did love the musical score though. Definitely keep your ears open for this beautiful music.

Bonus Features:

The Boys Are Back: A Photographic Journey — This 16+ minute slide show can be viewed with the director, Scott Hicks’ narration or viewed with music only. I recommend viewing this slide show with the commentary because as you see the behind the scene photos, you’ll find out the stories behind some of the photos, the casting of Artie, filming with pets, deleted scenes, and more.

A Father and Two Sons, On Set — Simon Carr’s 2 sons visit the set to meet the actors who portray them in the film and it is such a wonderful moment that was captured but unfortunately, this feature is barely 2 minutes long! I would have loved to have seen more of the sons and Simon Carr in the special features…maybe in the Blu-ray? Who knows…

The Boys Are Back is available now on DVD.