Feels like it’s been a minute since they let Temuera Morrison play a bad guy—Star Wars: Attack of the Clones was a long time ago, and even Boba Fett’s a goodie now. But in this new Aussie thriller, he’s bringing all the menace. Sons of Summer hits cinemas from August 24.
Fans of Australian cinema should note that this is a sequel of sorts to 1977’s Summer City —the first major role for Mel Gibson—with OG screenwriter Phillip Avalon on writing duties with Greg Clayton, while Clive Fleury handles directing duties. Don’t sweat it, though: Sons of Summer requires no prior knowledge.
The film follows a gaggle of bronzed surfing buddies who hie off to the Queensland coast for a spot of surfing and to pay tribute to the father of Sean (Joe Davidson), who was killed off in the first film. Unfortunately for fellow grommets Clay (Jonathan Weir), Jack (Matoa Boosie), and Kane (Matthew McDonald), Sean owes a favour to hard nut criminals Rick (Alex Fleri) and Pete (Steve Nation), which he pays off by swiping a car full of drugs. As you do.
Unfortunately, that sets the terrifying Frank on his trail—and that’s Temuera Morrison. While our wave-chasing heroes are off up the coast, he’s doggedly and brutally tracking them down. Expect a paddle-out by the time the credits roll, we guess. Home and Away alumnus Isabel Lucas, herself no stranger to surfing, also crops up as Sean’s girlfriend, Katie—let’s hope Tem doesn’t get wind of her.
Deeply rooted in Aussie surf culture, Sons of Summer is definitely channelling some Point Break vibes, with its combination of big wave action and, well, straight-up action, Queensland’s stunning Gold Coast certainly looks the business, and Morrison in mean mode is always a good time. Will you be catching this wave?
