FILM REVIEW: Western Australian film "The Xrossing" hits close to home
Directed by Steven J. Mihaljevich and presented by Playtime Motion Pictures, The Xrossing is a compelling, moving and uniquely Western Australian film.
Opening with hazy, suburban scenery and the sweeping bushland of Swan View, the scene reveals the brooding murder of a young girl, Tracey Myers. Surrounded in mystery, her death begins to unravel loose ends as friends Shane (Jacob O'Neill), Angus (Jamie Smith) and Chris (Luke Morgan) pin the murder on the reclusive neighbourhood outcast, Black Bobby (Kelton Pell). With no hard evidence or mercy, their ignorance fuels a series of horrid hate crimes against him.
Amidst the senseless harassment, Chris finds it within himself to break the cycle of his peers’ racism and toxic masculinity. With his fellow classmate and new love interest Abbey (Georgia Eyers) acting as a moral compass, he realises he must stand up to his peers against the injustice caused.
In making amends for his wrongdoings, an unlikely bond is created between Chris and Bobby – as the latter rediscovers old passions that bring him joy once again. With old friendships tested, new ties are formed. Morgan and Pell display an especially undeniable on-screen chemistry, which will leave you beaming.
However, it all takes a twisted turn as Shane and Angus continue their quest to antagonise Bobby. With things being taken too far, the threat of violence looms as Shane’s half-brother and drug kingpin, Phoenix (Steven J. Mihaljevich), gets involved. Without revealing too much, the ensuing chaos and multiple story arcs climaxing together will have you on the edge of your seat.
Composed by Desmond W. Richardson and James Leadbitter, the film’s musical score reflects the brooding suspense perfectly – while the familiarity of Western Australian landscape hits particularly close to home. Additional soundtrack songs were created by other talented local musicians such as Brown Study Band, Rob Walker, Kulija, Dazastah, Rupert John and Kiera Jas. These elements, combined with the overall striking cinematography, aid in delivering a truly nail-biting narrative.
On a final note, the credits pay tribute to the late Andrew Namok – who had been initially cast to play ‘Bobby’ but was involved in a tragic and fatal accident. However, it’s safe to say that The Xrossing has been brought to life by not only a highly talented cast, but also the perfect dose of heartfelt moments within the layered plot.
For those who have the pleasure of experiencing this film in all its glory, it’s none other than a beautiful reminder of how human connection remains a central driving force, no matter the story.
