When inner-city party animal Jonah (Ryan Kwanten, True Blood) is diagnosed with testicular cancer, he is shocked to learn that the treatment will leave him infertile. Faced with the grim possibility of leading a childless life, Jonah begins a desperate search to find someone – anyone – willing to have a baby with him. Housemate Stevie (Sarah Snook, Spirited) supports her friend’s frantic race from ex-girlfriends to lesbian couples, but as Jonah’s time, and his list of potential biological mates starts to run out, both friends slowly realise a potential partner may have been staring them in the face all along.
Set in Sydney, Not Suitable for Children at first appears to follow classic rom-com conventions. There’s the atypical love interest in best friend Stevie, evidently meant for Jonah but kept apart by various clichéd, complicating circumstances. All that’s needed to complete the Hollywood formula is a fairy-tale ending. Fortunately, screenwriter Michael Lucas (Offspring) skilfully deviates from predictability by interweaving moments of true affection and tenderness. Endearing dialogue between Jonah and Stevie reveals a delicate and engaging dynamic, while the cleverly devised shift in viewpoint from Jonah to Stevie in the first half of the film allows audiences to sympathise with each individual’s troubles.
One of Not Suitable for Children’s great achievements is that its leads are all so very likeable despite almost fitting the stereotype of pretentious, fun-loving party animals. Kwanten shines as the leading man, giving a riveting performance as a young man facing a serious dilemma. Ryan Corr (Tangle) provides plenty of laughs as Jonah and Stevie’s comic relief housemate, Gus, and also delivers what is potentially one of the most hilarious closing lines in cinema history. But it is Snook’s breakthrough performance which really shines. As the outgoing and independent Stevie, she is an absolute delight. Snook proficiently displays comic smarts, dropping witty remarks at whim, yet also conveys vulnerability and quiet restraint when required.
Not to be overlooked is the film’s fantastic soundtrack, featuring infectious tunes by Mammals, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, and The Black Keys; an apt match for the energy exhibited by the film’s youthful cast.
Although a somewhat rushed ending may leave audiences feeling slightly uneasy, director Peter Templeman’s expert handling ensures Not Suitable for Children is more than just another rom-com. The film’s fresh and sincere take on heavy issues is highly engaging, and it eventually proves an excellent comedy with plenty of heart.
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
Not Suitable for Children
Director: Peter Templeman
Australia, 2012, 95 min
Available on Blu-Ray, DVD and Digital from 14 November
Distributor: Icon Home Entertainment
Rated MA 15+
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