The Emu War (2023)

Review Team

4/5

The Emu War is a refreshingly unique take on an obscure piece of Australian history, blending dark humour with a narrative that is both absurd and thought-provoking. Directed by Jay Morrissey, the film follows Major Meredith, a WWI veteran haunted by personal loss, as he leads a ragtag platoon into ... Show more >> The Emu War is a refreshingly unique take on an obscure piece of Australian history, blending dark humour with a narrative that is both absurd and thought-provoking. Directed by Jay Morrissey, the film follows Major Meredith, a WWI veteran haunted by personal loss, as he leads a ragtag platoon into battle against emus. The performances are commendable, particularly the lead, who captures the desperation and dark humour inherent in the story. The film's tone oscillates between laugh-out-loud moments and brutal violence, creating a dissonance that challenges viewers to reflect on the absurdity of colonial conflicts. Morrissey's direction is sharp, utilising striking visuals to enhance the chaotic yet comedic atmosphere. While the film may not appeal to everyone due to its graphic content, those with an appreciation for dark comedy will find The Emu War to be an engaging watch that stays with you long after the credits roll. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Emu War is a wild ride that revels in its own absurdity, presenting a comedic take on a peculiar chapter of Australian history. The premise of soldiers battling emus is inherently funny, and the film leans heavily into this with over-the-top action and dark humour. Major Meredith’s quest for ven ... Show more >> The Emu War is a wild ride that revels in its own absurdity, presenting a comedic take on a peculiar chapter of Australian history. The premise of soldiers battling emus is inherently funny, and the film leans heavily into this with over-the-top action and dark humour. Major Meredith’s quest for vengeance against the emus, particularly the Queen Emu, is both ridiculous and oddly relatable. However, while the film starts strong with its outrageous premise, it occasionally falters in pacing and coherence. The performances are solid, but some character arcs feel underdeveloped amidst the chaos. Morrissey’s direction keeps the energy high, but one can’t help but feel that the film could have benefited from a tighter narrative. Overall, The Emu War is a quirky experience that may not resonate with everyone, but it certainly delivers on laughs and a bizarre commentary on conflict. Show less