Ruben Guthrie

The movie Ruben Guthrie is an Australian drama from director Brendan Cowell, who has managed to flawlessly take the written word from his 2008 play of the same name and adapt it onto the big screen in a compelling and thought-provoking narrative. Released in 2015, the film follows the life of the titular character, Ruben Guthrie, portrayed with real charm and depth by Patrick Brammall.

Ruben Guthrie is a successful advertising executive living the high life in Sydney. He loves the debauchery that comes complete with late nights, parties, and endless alcohol. However, these moments of excessive indulgence lead to Ruben’s personal life being anything but glamorous. Beneath the veneer of success, he is a man spiralling down a dark path of alcoholism, risking his health, career and personal relationships.

In the opening scene, Ruben drunkenly jumps from the rooftop of his multi-million dollar home into his pool, badly injuring himself. This incident becomes a turning point for him and, to his surprise, his Czech model girlfriend, Zoya (Abbey Lee) makes a dramatic leave, telling him to quit alcohol for a year if he wants her back. Thus, the film revolves around Ruben's unconventional journey towards sobriety, nudging him to introspect and navigate the struggles of abstinence, underlined with a streak of dark humour.

Cooperatively, Brammall creates an empathetic depiction of Ruben, who is essentially flawed but trying earnestly to reshape his life and reclaim control. This attempt to rehabilitate oneself resonates with a wide variety of audiences, adding to the relatability and relevance of the film in contemporary society.

Complementing the main narrative are the myriad colourful characters that make up Ruben’s world. They are portrayed by a talented ensemble cast, including Alex Dimitriades as Damian, Ruben’s zealous and somewhat obnoxious best friend, who himself indulges in the bacchanalia of Ruben's former life. We also have Jack Thompson, who brilliantly fills the shoes of Ruben’s philanderer father, a successful sportsman filled with disregard for Ruben's chosen path of sobriety. However, the most heart-breaking character is probably Ruben’s mother Susan, played by Robyn Nevin, who fights her personal demons while trying to ensure the wellbeing of her son.

The premise of the story explores the pressure of societal norms, the difficulty of breaking free from toxic relationships and environments, and the hopes of trying to rebuild lost love. A subtle yet keen critique of the Australian drinking culture is also narrated throughout, showcasing not just its glamor, but also the devastation it leaves behind. The film challenges the notion of masculine identity invested within alcohol consumption, thus debunking stereotypes and presenting a refreshing and realistic portrayal of the path to sobriety.

The film also explores the theme of redemption and personal growth, through emotional and mental struggles. Ruben's journey is layered with guilt, denial, revelations, and the pain of self-realisation as he finds himself a stranger in his own life.

The mise-enscene of Ruben Guthrie is beautifully done, with the gleaming Sydney skyline and the lavish, glossy interiors reflecting Ruben's glamourous lifestyle but also concealing the darkness within. The excellent cinematography subtly highlights the dichotomy between Ruben's inner turmoil and outer glamor. The storytelling and direction preach nothing, still, make you reflect long after you've watched the film.

Ruben Guthrie is a solemn, yet sharp comedy-drama that executes an earnest exploration into the world of addiction and recovery. It's full of rich, authentic performances, led by an irresistible Patrick Brammall. The film stands as a poignant and powerful narrative about the joys and pains of self-transformation. It's profound, touching, funny, and overall, a memorable cinematic experience that leaves you thinking and feeling long after its credits roll.