THREE BLIND MICE

Country:	Australia
Language:	English
Duration:	94 minutes
Distributor:	Odin’s Eye Entertainment
Director:	Matthew Newton
Starring:	Ewen Leslie / Toby Schmitz / Matthew Newton / Tina Bursill
Genre:	Drama
Classification:	M

This tight ensemble piece with a dark heart is a tremendous second feature from writer-director-actor Matthew Newton.

Three young Australian naval cadets hit Sydney for one final night of fun before being shipped off on a tour of duty in Iraq. Their last tour was marred by the violent actions of their former XO and they are determined to make the most of their last few hours of freedom.

Sam (Ewen Leslie), who has been mistreated at sea, is thinking about going AWOL, Dean (Toby Schmitz) has a fiancé and the future in-laws to meet, while Harry (Matthew Newton) just loves causing mischief.

During the course of the night the boys pinball around the city, losing each other but finding themselves, and along the way discover courage, friendship and redemption.

With tight performances from the main characters plus a roll call of well-known Australian actors, which include Bud Tingwell, Barry Otto, Brendan Cowell and Jackie Weaver. This smart and sophisticated entrée into the modern war genre is a gem of ensemble acting.

What the Critics say!

“The three central performances are excellent, with Newton in particular standing out for his multi-faceted turn.” Mark Lavercombe – Hoopla

“…fresh and authentic thanks to vibrant, off-the-cuff dialogue and excitingly raw performances” – Matt Riviera

SPECIAL COMMENDATION – Sydney Film Festival 2008 for “its energy, passion, superb ensemble cast and such a fine collaboration by a talented group of young filmmakers” – Gillian Armstrong