This Boxing Day, Australian cinemas are serving up a cinematic feast that’s as diverse as it is divisive. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some films are destined to become instant classics, others might leave you questioning why you left the comfort of your couch. From gritty character studies to feel-good foreign flicks, and from family-friendly adventures to Hollywood’s latest blockbuster oddity, this year’s lineup has something for everyone—and plenty to debate.
Urchin ★★★★
Harris Dickinson, known for his roles in Babygirl and Triangle of Sadness, makes a bold directorial debut with Urchin, a raw and unflinching portrayal of homelessness. The film opens with Mike (Frank Dillane) waking up by the roadside, jolted awake by a ranting street preacher. It’s a scene that immediately immerses you in the underbelly of British society, reminiscent of Ralph McTell’s haunting Streets of London. But here’s the twist: Urchin isn’t your typical rags-to-riches tale. It’s a finely calibrated drama that refuses to sugarcoat Mike’s struggles, yet it never feels oppressively heavy. You’ll find yourself rooting for him, even as he grapples with cruelty and self-sabotage. And this is the part most people miss: the film subtly argues that redemption is possible, but it’s rarely a straight line upward. It’s a powerful reminder that life’s journeys are often messy and unpredictable.
My Brother’s Band ★★★★
Hollywood, keep your hands off this one. My Brother’s Band (titled The Marching Band overseas) is a French gem that tells the story of Thibaut (Benjamin Lavernhe), a world-renowned conductor with leukemia, who discovers he’s adopted and sets out to find his biological brother, Jimmy (Pierre Lottin), a trombonist in a community band. This film could easily have slipped into sentimental overdrive, but director Emmanuel Courcol masterfully keeps it balanced. Here’s the controversial bit: while the film celebrates both high and low art, it avoids the trap of preaching about their equal value. Instead, it lets the music—and the beautifully drawn characters—speak for themselves. It’s a feel-good story with a bittersweet edge, and it’s utterly charming.
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants ★★★
SpongeBob is back, and he’s as annoyingly energetic as ever. In this latest installment, our blockish yellow hero embarks on an underwater road trip to a dark, Halloween-esque part of the ocean, determined to prove he’s a “big guy.” The film maintains the franchise’s signature blend of vibrant animation, live-action antics, and absurd humor. But let’s be honest: while it’s a fun ride for fans, it doesn’t break new ground. The real question is: can SpongeBob still captivate audiences after all these years, or is the formula starting to feel stale?
Sentimental Value ★★★
Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value is a father-daughter drama with a unique twist. Nora (Renate Reinsve), a dancer, and her filmmaker father, Gustav (Stellan Skarsgård), navigate a complex relationship as he writes a script specifically for her. The film introduces the family home as a sentient entity, a metaphor that’s intriguing but ultimately falls flat. Here’s the problem: while the performances are strong, the film lacks focus, especially in its second half. It’s a well-intentioned exploration of creativity and family dynamics, but it feels more like a collection of ideas than a cohesive story. Is it a missed opportunity, or a bold experiment that doesn’t quite land?
Rental Family ★★
Brendan Fraser’s performance in Rental Family starts off promising—his portrayal of Phillip Vanderploeg, an American actor in Japan who poses as a stand-in family member, is initially touching. But as the film progresses, it becomes clear that Fraser’s character lacks depth, and the story devolves into cheesy sentimentality. The real shame? The film’s premise is brilliant, offering a unique commentary on social isolation and human connection. Yet, director Hikari fails to capitalize on its potential. Is it a case of great ideas poorly executed, or a missed chance to say something profound?
Anaconda
Boxing Day wouldn’t be complete without a big, silly Hollywood blockbuster. This year’s entry, Anaconda, is a meta action-comedy starring Jack Black and Paul Rudd as indie filmmakers attempting to remake the 1997 cult classic. Described as a blend of reboot, reimagining, and spiritual sequel, it’s a high-concept gamble. The burning question: will it be a hilarious homage or a cringe-worthy misfire? Only time will tell.
The Housemaid
Paul Feig’s adaptation of the bestselling novel stars Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried in a psychological thriller that’s been compared to 90s female-led suspense films. Sweeney plays Millie, a housemaid with a troubled past who uncovers dark secrets within the wealthy Winchester family. Here’s the hook: while I haven’t seen it yet, early reviews suggest it’s outrageously enjoyable—or enjoyably outrageous. Will it live up to the hype, or is it all style and no substance? Let’s hope it’s the former.
Final Thoughts: This Boxing Day lineup is a mixed bag, but that’s what makes it so fascinating. From the gritty realism of Urchin to the whimsical charm of My Brother’s Band, there’s something for every taste. But here’s the real question: which of these films will stand the test of time, and which will be forgotten by New Year’s Day? Let’s debate it in the comments—I want to hear your take!
