By Madeleine McDonald
Part fairytale, part The Goonies, Riddle of Fire (the feature debut by director Weston Razooli) is a fun adventure film about the lengths three kids will go to to play video games. 80s films like the aforementioned and The Princess Bride– their influence is certainly felt in the film, from 16mm film grain to visual effects and props like the kids’ spy gadgetry. As are the 80s in other ways, including in the opening credits’ theme tune, which has a synthetic twinge to it.
The other big reference point of the film is the fantasy genre. It can be seen in various character types such as witches, huntsmen, and Sleeping Beauty princesses, in an assortment of characters. As well as subtle aesthetic touches such as the medieval style of font seen in places like the credits. All these nods are further enhanced by the movie’s setting in Wyoming. With lush green forests and countryside, it helps transport us to a tale that seems relatively timeless.
The movie’s storyline centered around childhood friends (on a quest for a blueberry pie before they’re allowed to play a video game) is also sensibly crafted. Each of the kids is written distinctively. Alice (Phoebe Ferro) is the tough leader, Hazel (Charlie Stover) is a larrikin, and Petal (Lorelei Olivia Mote) is headstrong, while Skyler Peters as the joker of the group, Jodie, is a standout. A great deal of the laughs within the film come from the many one liners that Peters delivers with humorously innocent maturity. And all work well together as an ensemble.
A refreshing hark back to kids’ adventures of the late 80s and 90s. A narrative filled with turns enough to fill numerous movies. Astoundingly funny, wholesome, and entertaining. Riddle of Fire is a timeless classic in the making.
4 stars out of 5
A wide release for Riddle of Fire is currently undated. The Melbourne International Film Festival is currently running from August 3rd until the 20th in cinemas, and online through MIFF Play from the 18th until the 27th. For sessions on standby, some tickets may become available to purchase after 5 pm the night before the session, or you can join the standby queues at venues on the day, which do not guarantee entry but generally have a high success rate. Interested in writing a review of anything in exchange for a free ticket? Just fill out this form or send us an email at unimelbfilmsoc@gmail.com.
MELBOURNE UNIVERSITY FILM INQUIRER 