TheSilverTongue Let's kill the elephant in the room. This film would not have been even moderately successful without the unusual and often awkward inclusion of Daniel Radcliffe. December Boys is Radcliff's first non-Potter film since he was twelve. While I understand that a quirky Aussie production would gain positive attention for the soon-to-be washup, Radcliffe simply wasn't the right man for the job. Enough about that wizard though.December Boys is a heart-warming story of four brother-like orphans fighting for the affection of hopeful adopters. Although there is little diversity in their characters, Misty, Maps, Sparks and Spit engage in cute rivalry, betrayal and camaraderie.The film tackles some simple themes in a charming manner. The boys learn the true meaning of family and the equal importance of friendship. Radcliffe's character, Maps explores the strings of his heart, teased by the young character portrayed valiantly by Teresa Palmer. This romantic sub-plot was underdeveloped, but provided a wonderful contrast to the boys' bleaker aspects of life. Unfortunately, misplaced religious motifs proved distracting and unnecessary.Visually, December Boys is a glorious achievement. Set in an enchanting, isolated beach community in Australia, sepia overtones enhance the film's sense of age. In several scenes, I found myself in awe over the vast, blue waters and the fringing green cliff-sides.Danielle Radcliffe, through no fault of his own, is the greatest downfall of this quality film. Though a slight let down, December Boys is a worthy watch for lovers of simple, honest films.To read more of my reviews, visit http://silvertonguereviews.wordpress.com/

b_havag "December boys" is a tale of growing up, of brotherhood, of love and most of all about friendship. It's a good movie, I really felt that I cared for what happened to the boys, especially Maps and Misty.Teresa Palmer as Lucy is absolutely beautiful, it's the first time I've laid my eyes on her. You'd think she is a brainless blonde when seeing her, but this one actually can act. At least I felt so. I also liked Fearless, Teresa, Bandy and his wife. They all seemed like so very nice people.After a somewhat slow start, I was entertained 'til the very end. I found myself watching with interest. Still, It's a movie I suspect I wouldn't like as much the next time, or the time after that. I know the story, it doesn't feel like it would be so interesting when it's not the first time.All in all, this December boy gives the December boys a 7/10 stars. Well done.

arieliondotcom A coming of age movie that is male enough to keep (especially teen) male viewers and sweet enough to keep female viewers, just naughty enough for them to feel as if they're watching a "grown up" movie and just sweet enough that it's not too adult. As someone else mentioned, it is the nearly perfect confluence of great acting, writing, and directing. The few points I deducted were for a few spots (such as the horse and the dying cancer victim) that seemed to try too hard to lay other, deeper layers on. Lots of nice, unexpected surprises and, thankfully, when you think you will be cheated by some "clever" turn in the script (as other movies are wont to do) you're not and come away feeling fully satisfied that it ends as it should.Altogether a very nice film though parents (especially non-Catholic parents) may have some 'splaining to do about some of the Catholic elements. And the PG-13 rating is appropriate.

john-boyzo To Jlin from the Emerald Isle .. methinks you had a little too much of the Hard Stuff ;-)Whats it like to be an Orphan in the days of narrow mindedness and strange moral beliefs that were taught then ... this film portrays this well.Excellent Cinema Photography and composition with some excellent stills and excellent script too with some pot shots at the ridiculous order that Nuns were and are today :( with their strange methods at handling Orphans not to mention their narrow minded beliefs.The acting by the 4 orphan boys was very convincing as was the portrayal of how young boys behave like smoking after lights out in bed, or how the awareness of the opposite sex awakened their senses.The orphans were the stars without a doubt the other adults competent enough Jack Thomson was somewhat wooden in his role.To sum up an enjoyable film devoid of any nasties ... not a masterpiece by any means though.