American Kingdom

It has been so great to see the emphatic reacting that Australian audiences have had to Melbourne-set crime thriller Animal Kingdom. It currently sits at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and in it's second week at the box office it actually increased 11%. I'm fascinated to see how it continues as the word continues to spread that this is - whether one agrees or not - the newest Aussie classic. I may have preferred that label to be attached to something like Three Blind Mice, but if Animal Kingdom has to be the one to get the critical and commercial respect then I'm only too happy to watch them get it.

The film, directed by first time director David Michôd is receiving an American release in August and Quickflix Blog got a hold of the American poster. Let's check it out.


It's obviously a big change from the two previous designs that we've seen (the Australian theatrical poster and the Sundance festival poster, both below). They've gone with a cool (as in cold) blue look as opposed to the Gothic family portrait look of the local design. I find it interesting and, quite frankly, stupid that they haven't put Guy Pearce on there since he is the only recognisable face (for Americans) amongst the cast. Unless I'm somehow underestimating the reach of Joel Edgerton's Star Wars cameo and he is somehow known over there in the States.

I do love that they included a quote about how deliciously evil Jacki Weaver is since, as you should very well already know, I agree wholeheartedly that she gives one of the greatest performances you'll see this decade (and, yes, I am aware this decade isn't even 6 months old, but it is that impressive). I would be intrigued to hear from any American readers as to whether this design appeals to you. Speak up in the comments if you'd like. Personally, I'm not keen on this new look and I prefer the Aussie design, but what say you?


See?