How to Make Gravy

Nick Waterman's 2024 Australian film takes off from a letter Joe writes to his brother from prison. Christmas is coming and Joe will not be with his family. The letter is the film's frame. Joe tries to survive inside while the family's preparations go on outside; the narrative crosses the two and makes the meal itself the means of connection. It is adapted from a well-known Australian song. Hugo Weaving and Daniel Henshall appear. There is violence, but the prison scenes are not made into spectacle. Who it's for: those who like family drama and adaptations of songs. Who it's not for: viewers who do not know the song; the film leans on its feeling.