A number of Australian reviewers here have commented on how topical or parochial (in a good sense) some of the jokes are in The Castle, and I daresay on that basis that some passed me by -- but it can't have been many. This is a libertarian movie, a demonstration of the power of an (almost) omnipotent State being challenged by an unlikely opponent -- an ill-educated family which happens to know right from wrong, and a hero who fails to see how being evicted from the family home can be justified under any circumstances. The climax is a court hearing, the family's case handled with consummate skill by a retired QC to whom it appeals. (The QC is played by Charles 'Bud' Tingwell, perhaps best known as Detective Craddock in the 1960s series of four Agatha Christie movies which starred Margaret Rutherford). Anyway, I loved the movie, both its philosophy and its humor.

On first watch, it's quite possible to think this film as something that was hastily put together on a shoe string budget in the hopes it might make some cash. It will seem so completely cheesy as to be ridiculous.But then, as you watch, something rather amazing happens. You realise that the acting is first rate, the timing is impeccable, the humour quite outstanding. This is no accident at all. There is in fact so much more here than meets the eye.Simplistically speaking, at the very least there is the interplay between family members and friends that makes you feel that you wish you could be their friends as well. There are also so many quotable phrases that will stick with you that you'll find yourself using time and time again, and when you do, you'll find yourself smiling. It's not for me to point them all out to you here, discover them for yourself and you'll feel all the better for it. Dig deeper and you'll see how important the sense of camaraderie is to all of us. Here, with this David versus Goliath storyline you'll also find an incredibly important reference regarding the Marbo decision regarding Aboriginal rights to land that reflects to this modern day parable.Most of all however, you'll find yourself caring for the people on the screen. Oh to be a friend of the family, to be invited to Bonnie Doon, to bask in the mutual respect and admiration that these people share between themselves. But finally, you'll revel in the humour, and what humour there is. It is quite simply sublime. Grins that would seem utterly ludicrous elsewhere, will leave you with a warm glow and a smile from ear to ear.This is not a lucky accident, it is as much a work of genius as might be The Seven Samurai, Jaws, Pulp Fiction or The African Queen.Bravo to Australia for its making, but even more bravo for you for having the good taste to enjoy this superlative piece of divine comedy.

This is one of our five top movies in the world..........have watched it probably 4 or 5 times........an American friend turned us on to it.....bought it and just keep watching it..........This was SO funny,,,the cheap lawyer....the illustrious solicitor,,,the neighbors.......the family and the kids.....how could anyone think this is kind of for Aussies or something?Maybe being Canucks,,,,we are so close in our thinking to Aussies, of whom there are plenty around here, that we just Get It!Can't believe anyone could not get this....such a simple, heartwarming story...NO violence...nothing scary....o.k. maybe the hairdo's!

The Castle is about a typical Aussie battler family who happen to live directly next to an airport in Melbourne, and by next to I mean that the runway ends about 100-200 yards from their house. Their family is extremely happy and almost every member of the family seems to be living a satisfying and 'fulfilling' life. All is well until one day the father, Darryl Kerrigan (Michael Caton), is approached and is told that he must sell his house because the airport is expanding. After an initial f**k off, Dale realizes that this is a serious threat and decides to fight the big business and take everyone to court. The result is a comical journey of the Kerrigan family struggle to keep their house and remain a tight knit happy family. The Castle is a small guy versus the big guys film that has a sentimental emotional core, and many jokes are derived from the story of a charming family defending their home against a compulsory acquisition.Performances from a talented Australia cast breathe life into a bunch of quirky but lovable characters. Michael Caton is especially great as the father of the family, Darryl Kerrigan, a lovable oaf with a heart of gold. Veteran actor Charles (Bud) Tingwell also appears as a wise lawyer who takes it upon himself to defend the Kerrigans.The script was written by Santo Cilauro, Tom Gleisner, Jane Kennedy and Sitch - all regulars on TV's The Panel. They have a sound sense of joke timing, and how to keep audiences interested. The Castle is a rare find; a funny, wonderful piece that shines in its own homely, honest way.