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Swimming Upstream Reviews

Jun 4, 2021

The hard way for the redemption

Jul 1, 2020

Competent, but nothing special, you have seen it done better.

Jun 26, 2015

Inspiring story that I really loved, because, when this young man had a choice, he chose an education over the Olympics.

Jun 26, 2013

the movie itself was ok, an entertaining watch. but whoa, power to geoffrey rush & judy davis. salute with a capital S. geoffrey rush was so great in this, it surpassed his performance in Shine for sure.

Jun 24, 2012

It's not easy movie to watch,but once you get used to the thick Aussie accent you devour the picture, hungry for more. Very nice,very nice indeed.

Dec 24, 2011

Beautifully acted, inspirational film about a young swimmer who triumphs despite almost overwheming odds

Super Reviewer
Feb 3, 2011

Swimming Upstream. Beautifully acted, but filmed with restraint. When I say filmed with restraint, I'm referring to Swimming Upstream's underselling of itself. At times this is its weakness, while other times it's a strength. In the extremely dramatic scenes involving the family's troubles, the emotion is very raw and honest without being flashy and soap-opera-ish. While it was fun to see Jesse Spencer out of his role on House (for real, great performance), the obvious shining light was Geoffrey Rush (who won an Oscar for Shine, see what I did there?). I'm surprised he wasn't nominated for this, because he steals the show in every single scene. Even when you're supposed to be thinking about Spencer's emotional battle, you're putting every ounce of effort into reading Rush's subtle blank stare. They even threw in a couple of random impressively artsy cinametographical (not a word) tricks, like filming the kitchen fight from underneath through a glass floor... looked awesome. The split screen swim meets worked well also, a bit strange at times, but a good fit. Why 80%? Because the juxtaposition of the swimming storyline with the family turmoil was great, as well as the performances. A well-crafted movie for an inspiring story. Extra: An ode to Geoffrey Rush... Your disgusting jaw compelling so, The way you ramble to and fro. The nasty wrinkles of your cheek, I only imagine how you reek. Unkempt hair, skin not so fair, Your gangly arms are hard to bare. Yet still I watch on the edge of my seat, Cuz your performances can't be beat.

Oct 16, 2010

Moving Australian drama full of fine performances.

Sep 19, 2010

Nice movie for a quiet evening at home. Nothing to rave about, it is filmed in a very conventional manner but great acting by Judy Davis and a good insight into daily life in the Australia of the 50s.

Super Reviewer
Aug 7, 2010

(2004 Director: Russell Mulcahy) Based on a sad true story de Anthony Fingleton. Hard-working father ( ) taunts his 3 sons due to his own misguided idea that only physical strength matters. [more review to follow] (2004 Directeur : Russell Mulcahy) fondé sur une vraie histoire triste de l'Anthony Fingleton.. Le père qui dur-travaillant () accable de sarcasmes ses 3 fils en raison de sa propre idée dévoyée que la force seulement physique a d'importance. [plus de revue pour suivre]

Jul 12, 2010

This one deserves more recognition! One of the most insperational true stories I've ever seen.

May 13, 2010

touching. great swim shots. great soundtrack. good acting.

May 12, 2010

a moving true story how a young man struggle to get the attention of his father.

Apr 4, 2010

great film about a young man trying to gain his father's love and respect, and finding himself in the process. Geoffrey Rush was absorbing to watch, his presence lights up every scene he was in. sensitive portrayal of the tough life in Australia in the 60s, of looking up and away for inspiration.

Nov 7, 2009

el que percevera alcanza

Oct 12, 2009

"Swimming Upstream" is amazingly good considering it's basically just your average spots movie. A misfit who gains social recognition by excelling in a specific physical activity and so on. Jesse Spencer does a really good job in portraying a beliavable young character and Geoffrey Rush has one heck of a presence as always. Really pleasant and emotionally effective if not all that fresh or new.

Oct 11, 2009

Good to see Jesse Spencer (pre-House). Really shows he can act in this one!

Sep 20, 2009

great story and great film - my american husband had trouble understanding some of the dialog w/out subtitles :)

Aug 9, 2009

OMG! I can't believe "Tim" was actually "Dr. Robert Chase" from "House." He was hot in this movie. All muscle and tanned with a great smile...lol. The movie was awesome!! I can't believe a father would pit 2 brothers against each other.

Aug 1, 2009

I love Aussie movies & this is yet another hidden gem... True story right here in Brisvegas!!! Excellent acting, great story & I was even amazed in the credits lol... Actually its a nice but sad story, I won't say anything about the father - it may be prejudicial to my new career :)

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