December Boys (2007) User Reviews

Liked it.

[b_havag · 6/10 · 26 January 2009]

"December boys" is a tale of growing up, of brotherhood, of love and most of all about friendship. It's a good movie, I really felt that I cared for what happened to the boys, especially Maps and Misty.

Teresa Palmer as Lucy is absolutely beautiful, it's the first time I've laid my eyes on her. You'd think she is a brainless blonde when seeing her, but this one actually can act. At least I felt so. I also liked Fearless, Teresa, Bandy and his wife. They all seemed like so very nice people.

After a somewhat slow start, I was entertained 'til the very end. I found myself watching with interest. Still, It's a movie I suspect I wouldn't like as much the next time, or the time after that. I know the story, it doesn't feel like it would be so interesting when it's not the first time.

All in all, this December boy gives the December boys a 7/10 stars. Well done.

Tender story beautifully filmed and acted

[john-boyzo · 7/10 · 3 December 2007]

To Jlin from the Emerald Isle .. methinks you had a little too much of the Hard Stuff ;-)

Whats it like to be an Orphan in the days of narrow mindedness and strange moral beliefs that were taught then ... this film portrays this well.

Excellent Cinema Photography and composition with some excellent stills and excellent script too with some pot shots at the ridiculous order that Nuns were and are today :( with their strange methods at handling Orphans not to mention their narrow minded beliefs.

The acting by the 4 orphan boys was very convincing as was the portrayal of how young boys behave like smoking after lights out in bed, or how the awareness of the opposite sex awakened their senses.

The orphans were the stars without a doubt the other adults competent enough Jack Thomson was somewhat wooden in his role.

To sum up an enjoyable film devoid of any nasties ... not a masterpiece by any means though.

Holiday at the sea

[zutterjp48 · 7/10 · 21 March 2019]

December Boys a a very nice story about 4 young orphans who travelled to the seaside and are thinking about their future.A story with dramatic moments but also with very sweet and happy moments.The cast is very good and the landscapes are marvelous.

Great Movie

[bootsnspurs · 17 September 2007]

My husband and I loved this movie. Finally a movie where you actually care about the characters.

The acting is marvelous, the story is touching and the scenery is magnificent. Not only does every actor in the movie look their part, they are believable for a change. As the movie progresses, it's like you've been invited along on the trip to the cove with these four young orphans to see how they deal with the hand they're dealt.

The people they meet during their holiday by sea are exactly what you'd expect. Regular folks with real life emotions, dreams and problems.

This was a bold movie by Hollywood's standards. No car chases, explosions, swearing or ego-feeding in this movie. Just great entertainment.

For people out there who love good movies; go see this one. It's made the way movies ought to be. Good story, smart dialogue and a believable representation of the subject matter. We loved it! Great Entertainment. Four thumbs up!

Surely Watchable

[Shashiishere · 7/10 · 24 May 2008]

Not many ppl liked this one but i found it surely watchable though i agree completely it could have been a lot better.This one was mainly in t news because of harry potter daniel radcliffe in a 'so unlike' harry potter role. Full marks to him for shedding his image nd trying something as experimental as this.This trail of four adolescent orphans celebrating a vacation in a picturesque location in Australia waiting to be recognised.Their rivalry nd brotherhood at t same time nd various teenage activities are real enough to make us nostalgic.But there r some loose ends where u simply cannot explain t actions of t leading characters as real.And t ending is a big let down making a few wonder 'wats t point'.But u can accept a few blemishes in t editing nd script to walk down t memory lane one more time

Coming-of-age in South Australia... and tantalizing Teresa Palmer

[Wuchakk · 7/10 · 23 October 2013]

I was interested in "December Boys" (2007) for two reasons: I like (non-raunchy) coming-of-age flicks and the fact that it takes place on the Southern coast of Australia (actually it was shot on Kangaroo Island, part of South Australia). As for Daniel Radcliffe, the star of the popular Harry Potter films, I've never seen him in a movie before and have no interest in him or Potter.

The story revolves around four boys from an Outback Catholic orphanage who get to celebrate their December birthdays by taking a Christmas holiday on the coast. They discover that a young childless couple are interested in adopting one of them, which creates a bit of rivalry, although the oldest one (Radcliffe) could care less and spends his time learning about girls and romance. Their time at the coast becomes a cornerstone experience as they ultimately discover what family means.

Unless you're Australian, I encourage you to utilize the English subtitles to understand the nigh-unintelligible Australian dialect. Otherwise you'll only comprehend about half the dialogue and the story will be lost to you. No kidding.

After seeing the film a few times I only remember two of the boys: Maps and Misty. The others might as well have been phantoms. The plot is interesting, but the story as-played-out is not very compelling (although the epilogue is slightly moving). The film tries too hard to be "magical." Scenes come and go with largely ill-defined characters and little dialogue or explanation. This is definitely a picture where you'll have to read in between the lines to appreciate, which might make it good for repeat-viewings.

On the positive side, the Kangaroo Island locations are fabulous, especially the high shots of Remarkable Rocks in Flinders Chase National Park.

The picture really comes alive when Teresa Palmer is on screen; she plays femme fatale Lucy. The movie poster (or DVD cover) is deceiving in that Teresa looks to be about 12-13 years-old. Actually she was 20 during filming and plays an about-16 girl with curvy legs from here to New York. Lucy's scenes with Maps are the highlight of the picture (and not at all "awkward" as another reviewer contended). Lucy is aware of her tantalizing feminine powers and skillfully utilizes them to bewitch Maps with her spell.

Other highlights include a secret cave high up on the rocks, a wild black horse who seems to fish, an Evel Knieval-type character who may not be as "Fearless" as he lets on, a colossal fish named Henry and the cantankerous old man fascinated by it.

The DVD feature about 10-minutes of deleted scenes that should have never been deleted. Make sure you catch 'em as they help explain the story better.

In the book the story was set in the 30s, but the filmmakers decided to switch it to the late 60s. Some people found this confusing, but I didn't. Others complained that the children-as-adults at the end were too old considering they were kids in the late 60s, but the epilogue obviously takes place in the near future, like the 2010s or 2020s, which would put them in their 50s or 60s.

BOTTOM LINE: Although the story is merely okay as far as captivating and moving cinema goes, the highlights noted above compel me to give "December Boys" a decent rating, in particular the scenic rocks/coast and Lucy.

If you like Teresa Palmer in this picture be sure to check her out in "Bedtime Stories" (2008), "Restraint" (2008) and "The Grudge 2" (2006).

The film runs 1 hour, 45 minutes.

GRADE: B/B-

A charming effort of reliving a wonderful story

[TheSilverTongue · 6/10 · 10 February 2013]

Let's kill the elephant in the room. This film would not have been even moderately successful without the unusual and often awkward inclusion of Daniel Radcliffe. December Boys is Radcliff's first non-Potter film since he was twelve. While I understand that a quirky Aussie production would gain positive attention for the soon-to-be washup, Radcliffe simply wasn't the right man for the job. Enough about that wizard though.

December Boys is a heart-warming story of four brother-like orphans fighting for the affection of hopeful adopters. Although there is little diversity in their characters, Misty, Maps, Sparks and Spit engage in cute rivalry, betrayal and camaraderie.

The film tackles some simple themes in a charming manner. The boys learn the true meaning of family and the equal importance of friendship. Radcliffe's character, Maps explores the strings of his heart, teased by the young character portrayed valiantly by Teresa Palmer. This romantic sub-plot was underdeveloped, but provided a wonderful contrast to the boys' bleaker aspects of life. Unfortunately, misplaced religious motifs proved distracting and unnecessary.

Visually, December Boys is a glorious achievement. Set in an enchanting, isolated beach community in Australia, sepia overtones enhance the film's sense of age. In several scenes, I found myself in awe over the vast, blue waters and the fringing green cliff-sides.

Danielle Radcliffe, through no fault of his own, is the greatest downfall of this quality film. Though a slight let down, December Boys is a worthy watch for lovers of simple, honest films.

To read more of my reviews, visit http://silvertonguereviews.wordpress.com/

'Harry Potter' grows up

[HotToastyRag · 7/10 · 25 January 2022]

My friends and I were so excited to see The December Boys, Daniel Radcliffe's first movie outside of the Harry Potter franchise. We even drove to the big city to see it in the theaters! As entertaining as it was, it's understandable that a group of high school girls wouldn't end up liking it.

Unsurprisingly, after playing an orphan in both David Copperfield and Harry Potter, Daniel was cast as another orphan in this coming-of-age drama. In an Australian orphanage (so keep an ear out for that accent), he and his three friends are given a vacation to celebrate their birthdays. If you can't guess what month they were born in, you're not old enough yet to see this movie. As they get the opportunity to relax and soak in the sun at a wealthy couple's home, their dear friendship transforms with jealousy. Since they're all orphans, the idea occurs to them that the couple might adopt one and let him stay; so, they each try to endear themselves.

As is the case for all coming-of-age stories, there's some sadness, some sex, some betrayal, and some wisdom. My girlfriends and I were a little surprised (and reduced to giggles) to see Daniel making out with a girl on the beach. I don't actually like the coming-of-age genre, but somehow I always end up seeing them anyway. Don't expect sunshine and rainbows with this movie. The preview makes it look more lighthearted than it is. But if you want to see Daniel Radcliffe making one of his rare "normal" movies, go ahead and rent it.

A gentle story, well told with stunning Australian scenery.

[frasmore · 10/10 · 17 September 2007]

I loved this movie from beginning to end. It was a wonderful story of growing up and as the memories are long distant everything seems so much more magical and larger than life. As it really does when we are adults looking back at our childhood. I thought the acting was excellent and it was very well cast. Daniel Radcliffe plays a very subdued character far removed from HARRY POTTER and shows that he has the talent to continue in the business as an adult. The other 3 boys are good finds and I am sure we will see more of them in the future. While there is only a small cast, each one has a strong role and Mr & Mrs McAnsh are truly memorable. Kangaroo Island is absolutely stunning and from the dusty outback to the crystal clear coast, the visual splendour is a feast for the eyes. Don't expect a special effects blockbuster, just enjoy the journey of a lovely story!

What a mess

[keith-283 · 3/10 · 25 September 2007]

What a shame. I so wanted to enjoy this movie. But it failed in every conceivable way.

It had the basis of a good yarn - 4 young male orphans sent on their first holiday by the sea. Their hosts were stalwarts of the church and lived in a small cove with 3 other families right on the sea. The youngest, Misty, overhears the young couple discussing adopting one of the boys and from there on in it is a competition to win the affection of the couple. Sounds good - throw in a beautiful location (South Australia) and an adolescent love interest and it all should have added up to more than it did.

There were, to me, many shortfalls. The adult characters were incomplete, un-rounded, almost cardboard cut out (with the exception of Skipper, the female church stalwart who is the kids' host). The soundtrack (other than the 60s pop music) was risible - sweet and sickly and wholly inappropriate - result being it was too intrusive and mawkish. Mix the sweet and sickly soundtrack with long shots of the stunning scenery and even that became dull and boring. The plot clunked along from one scene to the other, badly edited and without any smoothness or apparent connection. Decisions were made in isolation with little development. It all came across as unreal and unbelievable. And as for the apparitions and the last scene involving the boys as adults was laugh out loud absurd - half the audience certainly thought so when I saw it - howls of sniggering and laughter.

Shame really - as I said, wanted to enjoy it for a number of reasons - its Australian, its a good a story, I wanted Daniel Radcliffe to set himself up post Harry Potter (and he actually didn't do a bad job - the most convincing scene in the film involved adolescent embarrassment between him and Teresa Palmer) etc.. But no matter what, I have to be truthful and place this film alongside 'Inside Paris' as the worst films of the year.

A Nutshell Review: December Boys

[DICK STEEL · 8/10 · 10 November 2007]

The buzz for December Boys surely points to how Daniel Radcliffe will fare sans cloak, glasses and lightning bolt scar on his forehead, to star in a movie that's totally out of the Harry Potter franchise. Gone are the fantastical elements and scores of ready, adoring fans, and in comes a serious dramatic piece about the coming of age, growing up, and raging hormones. Wait, Harry Potter is about that too doesn't it, although it stretches over 7 movies? But Radcliffe comes through unscathed, and it's not before long that you'd forget that here's Harry Potter. While possibly the biggest recognizable name on the cast list, it wasn't a walkover performance as everyone else had raised their act and not allow a young starlet usurp the strength of the movie. Based on a novel by Michael Noonan, December Boys tells the story of 4 orphans, all being born in the month of December, who were sent packing to a seaside village for a vacation, by virtue that it's a reward sent to the orphanage, and what better (lazier?) way to select the lucky few, than the ones celebrating their birthdays the same month.

So we have Maps (Radcliffe), Misty (Lee Cormie), Sparks (Christian Byers) and Spit (James Fraser) sent on a journey that will test their close friendship, and as usual, each will come face to face with their individual challenge that will forever change their lives. Gee, I sound like a generic trailer, but trust me, although the premise might sound cliché, December Boys hinges very heavily on the delivery of the child actors for its success. While the spotlight might be on Radcliffe and Cormie, Byers and Fraser each have their own charm, but are restrained by the frequency of their characters' on-screen appearance. The landscape of Kangaroo Island adds vast scale to this relatively small movie, opening our eyes to natural geographical wonders, becoming a character in itself, with its inhabitants mere players on its grounds.

While it's not Stand By Me, there's the usual basis that lurks around begging for comparisons. And worse, the story here allows for each of them to try and go one leg up on the other, as they learn that one of the purposes they are there at the village, was to allow for one of them to be selected for adoption. Hence the competition amongst the boys as they vie for attention, putting on their best behaviour, most contrary to what their actual characters are like. Each child however, have an episode directed around him, to similarly allow the audience to pick their preferred sub plots, involving a giant fish, a misunderstood motorcycle stuntman, dealing with mortality issues when their surrogate guardian has to battle disease, and of course, saving the best for last and for Radcliffe, first love, in the form of a young lolita Lucy (Teresa Palmer).

Soon, their hot blooded young boy antics and rebellious streaks give way to a tone of seriousness, and there's where the movie adds its poignant gravitas. December Boys might not seem much from the get go, but with each passing minute, it adds layers upon layers to build its repertoire and stand up against the scrutiny of mediocrity. By the time the final scene rolls by, even though it doesn't show much and does so mostly through narration, I thought the ending was perfect, with a tinge of regret, happiness, sorrow, and a show of solidarity all rolled into one.

The Australian sceneries can't quite keep this tearjerker from being forgettable

[Jay_Exiomo · 5/10 · 3 October 2007]

"December Boys" marks star Daniel Radcliffe's first lead foray outside the world of Hogwarts, and the magic is conspicuously lost. Not that Rod Hardy's well-meaning drama is terribly bad, but it's listless and overly sentimental that ultimately, it's a forgettable experience.

Set in 1930s Australia, Radcliffe plays the role of Maps, an orphan boy raised in a Catholic orphanage. Together with three other orphans born in December (hence their eponymous moniker), they were sent on a holiday at a beach for Christmas where a newlywed couple plans to adopt one of them.

While the film's location and cinematography are breathtaking, there's not much else. Marc Rosenberg's script adapted from Michael Noonan's novel can't achieve enough momentum to keep it out of a monotonous setup. The characters are such bland figures lacking any sense of depth, which unfortunately fails to give Radcliffe a role that's more challenging than being, eh, an orphan.

In the end, there's not much to make for the overtly familiar convention. Save for the visuals, there's nothing here that you haven't already seen in other coming-of-age films, which might have been done better.

A Lovely Film Indeed

[hdawne · 8/10 · 21 September 2007]

I believe many of the movie critics out there have been far too harsh in dismissing this film. I found it rather refreshing from the over-hyped, over sensationalized and big budget disappointments in the past few years. Many of the indie/low budget films are far better than what is making the big dollars and getting the heavy promotion these days.

December Boys is not a great film but it certainly is good and I found it very enjoyable. I laughed, I cried...and Mr, Radcliffe is definitely on his way to a long and successful career. He isn't the leading character although he is definitely the headlining star that without him this film probably would never have seen the light of day outside Australia. I thought his performance was wonderful. He may not have much dialog, but the sensitivity of his character comes across beautifully. I believe Mr. Radcliffe is underrated as an actor, one desperately trying not to be typecast and stereotyped a "the boy wizard". If the media would stop reminding us that he's Harry Potter, and let him be the untapped talent that he obviously is.... Give audiences credit that we can separate an actor from the role he plays. Frankly, not all of us are Potter fans and I don't see HP as this great literary work. It's an okay story that has benefited from brilliant marketing. However, I'm grateful because HP gave us a troupe of new and very talented young actors...and showcased just how many brilliant actors come from the UK.

Given many of the horrific child stars and forgettable cookie cutter actors out there in equally forgettable films , here is a young man that shows promise in the years to come. Give him a chance. He is obviously trying very hard to be more than what he's been painted since he was 10. Maps isn't a huge stretch, but a stepping stone from Potter. You can see where Radcliffe was in terms of acting ability right after Potter 4. He is easing his way delicately from his alter ego. Then he demolished his Mickey Mouse Club image with Equus. It's a shame that wasn't made into a film. He was truly brilliant as Alan Strang.

Granted this film (like others with A-list stars, mind you) has its trouble spots, but it still doesn't detract that it was beautifully shot and some of the acting was impeccable. Radcliffe has notably excelled further since this film was made over two years ago. Equus showcased that he isn't a one trick pony and that we really do have someone worth looking forward to as a brilliant actor in the future.

This film isn't perfect, but I just saw two other films this week that had huge plot holes and continuity errors, etc, so-so acting performances with clichéd plots and so forth but still garnered high praise. Maybe its the high profile stars or those producing/promoting these films. I just don't understand critics sometimes. I don't think anyone expected Oscar-caliber from this film or Radcliffe, but at the same time it is a helluva lot better than other films released this year. To be honest, I would have been disappointed in Radcliffe if he chose some dopey tween flick that seems to be the calling card of American young stars. Herbie Fully Loaded and High School Musical are such great films after all. Radcliffe could cash in on his current fame like the others and make trash, and be the poster boy of the tabloids but he doesn't. That should count for something. I'd rather read more about him than the likes of Lindsay, Paris and Britney any day of the week. .

I have seen complete garbage nominated for Oscars in the past and lately I don't put too much stock into many movie critics that give "A" ratings to films that I cannot believe someone paid money to even make let alone ones that I would waste my money on.

There's nothing wrong with a film that has a simple story line....a feel good movie thats enjoyable to watch. It doesn't have to have grotesque violence, language and explicit sex scenes. Probably one reason I love old Hollywood and independent films. Generally, I find these films wonderful (and many great ones) and ones that are worth the ticket price and buying the DVD. I can't say that about most of the films that are released every year nowadays.

It just seems this poor guy (Radcliffe) can't win for losing. If he released a candy/teenybopper flick he would have been crucified...he really takes a risk and goes for it with Equus and people freaked out that he wasn't a good role model for the Potter fans....oh, what a travesty! Yet he was a splash on the London stage and has obviously grown as an actor since this movie was made. Give the guy a break.....I think he will only get better and better with time. I know this was long winded, but I really champion this young actor. Not all Radcliffe fans are squealing 10 year olds.

The only thing I found worth to criticise in December Boys was the unclear time period and the time span in the aging of the characters at the end. Hardy unfortunately used music from different periods. The film looks to be set in the 60's but some of the music tells otherwise. And obviously the 'present day' older boys are too old, in my opinion by a couple decades.

Some say it was too sugar coated, etc...but there were many films in the golden age of Hollywood (which I loved) that would now be considered too chaste, too sweet, un-realistic...the list goes on and on. I would still take those movies (and this one) any day of the week over 95% of the garbage that is released today.

Forget the critics....go see December Boys.

bland drama

[nobbytatoes · 4/10 · 2 October 2007]

The coming of age tale has been tried and test for quite a long time. Learning life's mysteries and hard lessons, learning the end of childhood innocence. When all the ingredients are so blatantly in front of director Rod Hardy, it's sad that December Boys never utilise them to make a point in four boys lives cinematic, or even engaging. December Boys treads all so familiar territory; seen it before, well you'll see it all over again. True to the fact movies can regurgitate the same plot and arc time and time again, it all depends how it's rearranged into something that looks new and exciting. As four orphans, all born in December, are taken on a holiday to a small beach community, all things are possible. Marc Rosenberg's screenplay based upon Michael Noonan's book, wonderment on how this was such an important moment in his life becomes hard to figure out. As time slowly lumbers by, the build to what could have been a beautiful coda, resides on a perfunctory thud. Where was this building to? Nowhere except to some gorgeous scenery. David Connell's cinematography injects some lovely, sweeping landscapes; if only the story swept you away this much. A tiresome story, stiff and rigid acting all round. For Daniel Radcliffe's first major role out of Harry Potter, better stick to what he knows. December Boys is a broken record of a tired theme.

"What's the big deal about having parents anyway?"

[jemps918 · 8/10 · 15 October 2007]

Set in the late 60s, December Boys is a beautiful, poignant tale of adolescence and abandonment with the vast, awe-inspiring Australian outback as a backdrop, unraveled in the same vein as Stand By Me.

"What's the big deal about having parents anyway?" Maps (Daniel Radcliffe) retorts to his summer fling Lucy (Teresa Palmer). Maps is the eldest of four orphan boys who get sent for a seaside holiday with an elderly couple. Misty (Lee Cormie) is the youngest and the artistic one of the brood. Sparks (Christian Byers) is good with mechanical things, while Spit (James Fraser) is so named for what he does best.

Having been given a glimpse of what the orphans' lives have been like together, you have an idea of where Maps' trend of thought comes from. They've survived so far without parents, and they have had each other to call as family growing up. This just becomes more glaring as they interact with their host family's neighbors, and they get in an emotional competition for possible adoption that tests the limits of their brotherhood.

Unfulfilled expectations are shared by all characters regardless of age and situation, and this is the main theme that the audience empathizes with. It is heartbreaking to see their faces light up with hope at the possibility of winning the parent lottery only to be passed on time and time again. Rude awakenings and rejection are themes that most people can relate to after hardened years, but for children to already know it intimately at such an age is what makes December Boys the thoughtful tearjerker it is.

Done before in a different location

[akka10 · 1/10 · 21 April 2008]

Boring, bland plot. Undeveloped characters. Not well written. I have not read original novel. So I am hoping, it has all the ingredients of a memorable coming of age tale. The fault may be in the screen adaptation. Overall a really thin, predictable plot. More so an advertising campaign for the South Australian tourism board than anything. Nice photography. But the whole thing didn't 'have it'. It confused me, it could of been passed off as a children's film, as it was such a simple, predictable plot. But, the nudity (which I am fine with) says that it was not produced for the children's film market. I think if this had been produced and sold as a children's movie, it would of cut it. But, it is clearly designed for a young adult/adult market. Unfortunately it is 'laugh out loud' bad, trying to watch this film seriously as an adult. Sorry filmmakers, you blew your chance at making a good film. Go back to film school. Really awful, in fact embarrassingly awful.

A Special Something Makes It Work

[nturner · 8/10 · 8 November 2008]

December Boys is an overly sentimental and cliché ridden tale, but it has a special something that makes it work. That something is the engaging performances of the two major boys - Daniel Radcliffe and Lee Cormie.

The action takes place during a Christmas holiday of the late 60's or early 70's in Australia. The December boys are four boys from an outback orphanage whose birthdays fall in December. They are given a treat of a vacation at the shore provided by an older couple.

The four are three pre-adolescents - Sparks, Spit, and Misty (Cormie) - and one older boy who acts as the big brother of the younger three. He is Maps, played by Radcliffe. The story is told by Misty as an adult and contains many, probably mis-remembered, events of that eventful vacation.

The boys are hosted by an older couple with the man being played by Jack Thompson as Bandy. This is a bare-bones part, and Thompson's considerable talents are wasted. Bandy's wife is ill with cancer, and there are some interesting scenes of interactions with the boys but the couple plays a very small role in the whole thing.

The vacation cabin is in a small cove accompanied by several others, and the inhabitants of these neighboring cabins provide a number of interesting characters. The most interesting to the boys is a young, childless couple. They are seen as potential parents by the boys, and the three younger ones compete in a battle for their attention - led by Misty.

Maps is far more interested in a local teenage girl with whom he develops an intimate relationship. Because Radcliffe became famous as Harry Potter, Russell Edwards of Variety sarcastically states, "Destined to be forever known as Harry Potter Gets Laid…," but I saw much more in Radcliffe's portrayal of a teenager's first love. His performance is richly affecting.

December Boys is an entertaining combination of the vacation adventures and fantasies of four boys coupled with that longing purity of first love. It's not a great movie, but it gives the viewer a good feeling and gives this viewer some memories and emotions of times long passed.

Really stupid film and as usual a waste of Australian taxes.

[Ozzy2000 · 1/10 · 6 May 2008]

Set in the early sixties in an outback Christian orphanage four orphans are seen uncharacteristically "mooning" from a window. It quickly moves from the sublime to the ridiculous when the orphans are smoking after lights out. The head nun tells four orphans they are going on beach holiday due to a donation and you wonder why the rest of the orphans miss out. On the way to the beach holiday the children are heard to say "Let's cross swords" as they cross their urinating streams by a roadside break and I realize the scriptwriter has little conception of how Australian boys talk and behave. We then see the boys at a circus where they see 1980's BMX motor bikes in "daredevil" stunts but it's the sixties and you would have to conclude the director is an idiot. The film becomes a narrative of one of the boys wearing glasses and they arrive at the beach begin an unsupervised frolicking escapade. He the sees a black horse and it leads them to the beach where a topless girl emerges from the water and introduces herself in a Mexican accent. You then realize she is what appears to be a French family running the supposed to a beach resort. Daniel Radcliffe plays Maps and appears much taller and older than the other boys and is withdrawn .A Man appears on a Triumph motorcycle looking like his from the eighties. He the take the bespectacled boy for a dangerous stunt ride on his shoulders whilst riding his motor bike on sand. During this symbolised coming of age film we hear Australian rock hits from the seventies. Its further evidence that Australians can't make films and doesn't make any sense the dialogue is ridiculous. The other boys are drinking by now we see the horse with a fish in its Radcliffe's character is already smoking and probably already having sex with the blond Lucy. We see a horse with a fish in its mouth and see a silly adoption story. It only get worse from that point and is a waste of Australian taxpayers money. Acting woeful , Minus five stars.

Dreaming of a dream

[pazvanty · 9/10 · 6 January 2008]

A great movie indeed with all that a good movie needs: love, drama, realistic characters, joy, sadness and all the other things that a human being might feel nostalgic about at a certain moment.

The orphans change the cove and cove changes them forever and, if you let it, their story might change you as well.

The emotional charge simply grows bigger and bigger from the beginning of the movie towards the end thus providing with a finale of biblical proportions (emotionally speaking).

Although in the beginning it might not seem like much this is, in my opinion, a movie that will not leave you unchanged and give you a new perspective as to what your dreams are and/or ought to be.

Nice coming-of-age story of four Australian orphaned boys.

[TxMike · 16 October 2008]

Most of the movie takes place on small beach of vacation cabins on the South Australia coast, but it begins in the vast, featureless spaces of the Australian Outback, the location of this boys town run by nuns. One feature of the way the orphanage operates, boys are recognized as a group during the month of their birthday, so these 4 boys are known as the "December Boys." This December they get a special treat because a donation has been made, and the 4 of them are being sent "on holiday" to stay with a family during the Christmas break on this tidy little beach community. (Remember Christmas in Australia is summertime.)

Having mostly experienced life in the Outback ("when it rains a lot and floods we can go fishing.") these 4 boys are confronted with all kinds of surprises in the small coastal community. There is the childless married lady who comes out of the water, topless, to greet the boys. (One of them faints.) There is the precocious teenage girl who has a secret hideaway among the rocks that she calls her Stonehenge, and hints that aliens may have constructed it, although it looks like centuries of Ocean sculpting. And there is the old fisherman fishing for Henry ("Is that a person, or a type of fish?"), the old, large fish that visits the bay.

The movie is narrated in modern time by the adult character we come to know as Misty. Jusdging from Misty's current age, the story must have been set in the late 1950s or the 1960s.

Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter fame is Maps, because he has birthmarks on his chest that looks like maps. Lee Cormie is Misty who appears to be about 12 in the movie. Christian Byers is Sparks, and James Fraser is Spit because his dad flew a Spitfire. The teenage girl is cute Teresa Palmer as Lucy.

Sullivan Stapleton is Fearless, married to Victoria Hill as Teresa. They can't have children so begin talking about adopting one of the 4 boys. Misty overhears this and much of the last half of the movie has the boys in silent competition to see who might be chosen. This is a very big deal because it was very hard for any of these boys to be adopted.

A very nice, little movie, it has a realistic feel and is a coming of age experience for the 4 boys.

SPOILERS: Maps is the oldest of the boys, and often takes a "big brother" role. He is very naive in the ways of the world, and especially with girls. Lucy recognizes that and becomes his "teacher", since she has affection for him. She becomes his "first" in her hideaway. Towards the end of the movie, the childless couple announce they have chosen Misty to adopt, and the three of them watch as the other 3 boys wander away. Misty realizes that his family really is the group of 4 December Boys, and he affectionately tells the young couple thanks for choosing him, but he really belongs with the family he already has.

The movie ends in modern time, and we see Max Cullen as the Narrator and the Adult Misty. We learn that Maps, after his experience with Lucy, and having a vision underwater while saving Misty, actually became a Priest. All 3 surviving December Boys met at the seaside getaway with Maps' ashes, so they could be scattered on that hillside where the 4 of them had the bonding experience years earlier. (Note: It is not consistent with Roman Catholic practice to scatter ashes, especially for a Priest.)

Not the best of Decembers

[videorama-759-859391 · 5/10 · 7 May 2014]

From the look of it, or being set in a much earlier time, you might of expected this to be better, or more accurately, more from it. Despite good acting, with Radcliffe grasping not the best of Ocker accents, and likable settings of KI, I just found the film, limited in it's story, the best parts of course, involving sexy Teresa, who least added some spark and sunshine to the bare film. Radcliffe, while finding time to fall in love and actually some fun, going sand boarding and intimate cave exploring, is one of four orphans, hoping to win guardianship from this young couple they stay with during the warm month of December. Mcquade and a particularly plump Thompson as the aging owners of this homestead, Radcliffe and co, dwell in, are top floor, particularly, Mcquade while Victoria Hill, the mother to be of one of the four, who can't conceive was the standout. Tez looking somewhat like Pippi Longstanding played a great mix of flirtatious, sexy and free spirited to a T, while Radcliffe was pretty good too. Overall I just didn't get a complete feel from it, where you guess I could say, I was humbly disappointed. The after scene with the four boys, now men, returning to this place, didn't hurt either. Periodically shot, in that capacity, it was wonderful. The film isn't.

What The Big Deal About Having Parents Anyway?

[zeuthuk · 9/10 · 27 May 2008]

They say the best place to start is at the beginning, which is where our four main characters are introduced; Maps, Misty, Spit and Spark, otherwise known as the December Boys. The opening scenes take us to the boys home, an orphanage run by nuns in the Australian outback. Some might say this is a place of little excitement, so you can imagine their joy when being told they are to spend the summer in Ladystar Cove. Based on the edge of a seaside town noted for fairgrounds and fireworks, the cove provides the ideal backdrop for an emotional journey they will always remember.

The theme of love, romance, family, and friendship all play a role as the December Boys deal with the notion that one of them may be adopted, by a childless couple living in the cove. However, despite the inclusion of several co-stars, the writing focuses more on the boys who are superbly convincing. The cinematography is beautiful throughout with delightful scenic shots and close ups that capture the wonder of childhood.

I assumed the film was based in the 60's but there is no given time line and the chosen score is too post modern and does nothing to encapsulate that era. However, despite these flaws December boys contains plenty of small joys and touching scenes, with timely voice overs and good direction, this is a film deserving to be seen.

unintelligible dialog

[ellerveira · 2/10 · 15 June 2008]

For Americans the dialog was next to unintelligible. The British accent overlaid with an Australian accent made most of the dialog sound like gibberish. I would say only 30% would be understood by Americans. Then the movie doesn't have much direction or point. As a result the movie BOMBED in the USA. I think it took in only about $50,000. Pitiful, just pitiful. And it wasn't from lack of advertising. Radcliffe came to the US and made the rounds of talk shows to publicize it before it came out. I am sure he expected it to be a winner. Instead it was a disaster. But Dan has recovered somewhat with My Boy Jack. This is not a big thing in the US since it is a TV drama and not a movie, but he did fine in that. He needs to make a non-Potter movie with an American accent (he can do it if he tries) so that Americans can understand him easily. He is awfully short though to be a real star. You see this when he stands beside a 6' person. He look sorta midgety.

Great movie on a beautiful island

[felix-stohlmann · 8/10 · 14 October 2007]

I like the movie and was especially emotional because I've been to Kangaroo Island for one week last year and I have lived near Snellings Beach. The Remarkable Rocks were so beautiful as little Sahara and Stokes Bay was (what was also in the movie) and the other nice places... (e.g. seal bay). the story is beautiful and the actors are good. The only thing I didn't like was the scene in the end with virgin Maria/the holy mother (whoever it was) underwater... but the rest is just amazing, emotional and tragical and in the same place fantastic and beautiful! When I saw the sceneries I was so amazed and wanted to get back to Kangaroo Island. It is really funny if you've once got a personal relationship to that island because there are only about 3000-4000 people living there and I've been to the biggest party: The Sheep Shearers Ball and got to know a few locals and lived with locals. Nice people, beautiful Island... Go There!

nostalgic

[pepetrino · 9/10 · 8 January 2019]

It is a movie that moves deep emotions, tells the sad story of guys who are left alone in this world with the hope that someone and at some point give you a sincere hug, to see this film I moved to my childhood, because I was adopted and the panic that you feel when you are alone.