Rough Stuff

Rough Stuff is a thrilling outback adventure film released in 2017. This Australian produced motion picture takes audiences on a wild ride filled with action, adventure, and a refreshing dash of humor. The film features the talented Gareth Rickards, Vincent Andriano, and Sam Glissan in lead roles and is directed by Jonathan Adams. Rough Stuff is a mix of maverick storytelling with an amplification of the ageless man vs nature theme, serving up a refreshing modern construction of the classic treasure hunt story.

The protagonist of Rough Stuff is Buzz (enacted by Gareth Rickards), an adventure-loving off-roader who has dedicated his life to seeking out the undiscovered trails and unhindered tracks across the Australian outback. Buzz is pulled into a lucrative yet questionable deal by a scheming businessman Eric (played by Vincent Andriano), a gold hunter who promises fortunes that could enable Buzz to continue his life on the road indefinitely. Eric believes that a legendary lost gold mine, named 'Stray's Gold,' exists in the unexplored wilderness, and he intends to find this lost gold fortune with Buzz's help.

To reach the remote location, Eric enlists the expertise of a couple of ragtag eco-activists, Tori and Rolf (played by Katie Garfield and Jamie Kristian, respectively). Promising them a chance to sabotage a massive logging corporation from the inside, he cunningly gets them to join the team. As one would expect, the journey is not simply a drive down the winding roads of the outback. They must face harsh weather, unforgiving landscapes, seasoned treasure hunters, and the law's long arm that are all intent on thwarting their expedition.

Buzz's character is reminiscent of the classic adventurer archetype with a rugged exterior but a heart of gold. Rickards plays the role perfectly, encompassing the thrill-seeking daredevil tendency, and in many ways, being a metaphor for the untamed Australian outback itself. Vincent Andriano delivers an excellent performance as the obsessively ambitious Eric, and Sam Glissan brilliantly plays Abe, Buzz's off-roading partner and loyal companion. The dynamics between Buzz and Abe bring humor, depth, and familial warmth to the film.

Beyond the lead actors, the supporting cast members are equally commendable and significantly contribute to the richness of the narrative. Particularly noticeable is Hayley Sullivan who plays the role of Skye, Buzz's 'lost long girl'. Her character adds a romantic angle to the rough, adrenaline-rush movie and infuses the narrative with an emotional undercurrent. Abe’s elderly father Picket (played by Adam Horner) also brings depth to the narrative with his wisdom and free-spirited nature offering viewers a respite between action-filled sequences.

Moreover, Rough Stuff is more than just a showcase of acting talent. The film brilliantly highlights the untouched expanse, rugged majesty, and the wild beauty of the Australian outback. Director Jonathan Adams does an exquisite job of unfolding the narrative against the beautiful yet daunting panorama, making the landscape a character in its own right.

The treasures in the movie are not just those buried underneath the earth; they are also a reflection of the human spirit, grit, and determination. The characters grapple with self-discovery, re-evaluation of their beliefs, and understanding the real price of the treasure they set out to find. Each twist and turn in the narrative tests their resolve, loyalty, and the extent they'll go to realize their ultimate goal.

Rough Stuff brings back the classic adventure and exploration genre with a modern twist. Infused with an enjoyable blend of comedy, drama, and romance, Rough Stuff is a delightful watch for those seeking more than just a hint of adventure. It's an exhilarating homage to the thrill of discovery, the excitement of uncharted territories, and the undeniable allure of the road less traveled.