Monkey Puzzle

Monkey Puzzle is an exuberant, dynamic Australian film that hit the screens in 2008. Directed by Meredith Dreis, this delightful independent movie is a rich blend of enthralling drama and finely nuanced romance that leaves audiences entertained and profoundly moved.

The protagonist of this engaging drama is Dylan, played with verve and deep sensitivity by Ben Geurens. Dylan is a young, motivated individual, an aspiring photographer, and a conscious observer of life. Taking us through his artistic gaze and unfolding narratives of love and friendship, Dylan's character grows on the audience as an amiable, sensitive, and complex personality. His mysterious artistic musings and his passion for capturing the kaleidoscopic beauty of Sydney through his lens form the essence of who he is.

The plot deepens and gains momentum as it deftly delves into the trope of unrequited love, which forms the central theme of the story. Dylan has an old friend called Mia, portrayed by the equally gifted actress, Ella Scott Lynch. Their friendship is strikingly intense, with Dylan having deeply concealed feelings for Mia, only to find her in love with his best friend Sam, played by Ryan Johnson. This love triangle sets the stage for a complex and enthralling drama.

Ryan Johnson impressively captures the character of Sam with his charismatic screen presence and brilliant acting prowess. He is the outgoing, vivacious character who seems to be the polar opposite of Dylan's introspective and brooding personality. Sam's passion for dance and his seemingly perfect relationship with Mia add more dimensions to the overall narrative.

The title of the movie, Monkey Puzzle, itself alludes to a quest towards unravelling mysteries and riddles of the heart. These metaphorical ‘monkey puzzles’ refer to the complexities of unreciprocated feelings, the dilemma of making choices between friendship and love, and the struggles of coming to terms with unrequited affection.

The vibrant city of Sydney acts as a perfect backdrop for this poignant narrative, showcasing its sunshine-filled days and brightly-lit nights, with an array of distinctly vivid locations. Director Meredith Dreis successfully brings these captivating sights to life through her artistic vision, blending them seamlessly into the narrative fabric.

Admirably, the storytelling avoids falling into the trappings of clichéd romantic dramas, presenting a realistic, grounded perspective of love and self-realisation. The characters are beautifully fleshed out, their relationships delicately woven, the myriad emotions they experience sensitively portrayed.

The screenplay of Monkey Puzzle is laudable for its pitvotal role in keeping the audience intrigued. The narrative is peppered with beautifully-composed dialogues that effortlessly capture the undercurrents of emotions, the unsaid feelings, the confessions, and confrontations.

The movie also features exceptional cinematography, with each frame capturing the various moods and themes with finesse. The use of soft lighting and the play of shadows amplify the emotions on-screen, adding a unique layer to the overall visual storytelling.

Also noteworthy are the intricate choreographed dance sequences that stir the soul and bring the elements of passion, longing, and unexpressed feelings to the fore. Complementing them is the stellar soundtrack that resonates strongly with the audience, featuring a blend of compelling indie music and soundscapes that echo the characters' emotions.

The central cast's performance is quite commendable, with Ben Geurens, Ryan Johnson, and Ella Scott Lynch infusing life into their characters with commitment and intensity. Their portrayals of Dylan, Sam, and Mia bring an appealing sense of credibility to the narrative, enabling the audience to deeply resonate with their experiences and emotions.

In conclusion, Monkey Puzzle is a captivating exploration of love, friendship, and dreams, set against the picturesque canvas of Sydney. Its compelling storyline, engaging performances, riveting cinematography, and soulful soundtrack make it a must-watch movie that charms the audience with its beautifully woven narrative. With its raw portrayal of emotions and a unique storytelling approach, the movie leaves an indelible mark, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.