sports

Beast review

Directed by Tyler Atkins and co-written by Russell Crowe, this Australian feature follows a familiar playbook – but you’ll find yourself surprisingly invested

Beast review

TL;DR

  • Beast is an Australian martial arts drama about a former fighter seeking redemption.
  • The protagonist, Patton James, is drawn back into fighting after a decade of hardship.
  • The film uses boxing as a framework for exploring personal drama and familial issues.
  • Key characters include Patton's coach Sammy (Russell Crowe) and rival Xavier Grau (Bren Foster).
  • The narrative incorporates elements of the monomyth structure, including refusal of the call and rising to a challenge.
  • Despite familiar tropes, the film's emotional depth and polished visuals are highlighted.
  • Beast is noted as an improvement over director Tyler Atkins' previous film, Bosch & Rockit.