Addition Review: A Rare Australian Rom-Com Gem with Depth
Australia's cinematic landscape is often dominated by gritty thrillers, post-apocalyptic adventures, and rev-head action films. While we excel in these genres, there is a noticeable scarcity of homegrown romantic comedies. It can sometimes feel like years pass between notable Aussie rom-com releases that capture the public's imagination.
A Fresh Take on the Genre
Director Marcelle Lunam's new feature film, Addition, based on Toni Jordan's novel, boldly steps into this gap. The film consciously moves away from the traditional Hollywood formula of roses-and-sunshine romance. Instead, it incorporates a significant measure of darkness and complexity, which resonates more authentically with Australian audiences.
The story centers on Grace, a mathematician portrayed by Teresa Palmer. Grace's academic career has been derailed by mental health struggles, leading her to tutor high school girls. Despite her challenges, she maintains a sharp wit, enjoys tutoring her niece, and shares her home with an unusual imaginary companion: the historical figure Nikola Tesla, played by Eamon Farren.
The Meet-Cute with a Twist
The classic rom-com meet-cute occurs in a supermarket, where Grace encounters British tradie Seamus, played by Joe Dempsie. However, this moment is immediately layered with complexity. Grace lives with arithmomania, a compulsive need to count things. In a moment of anxiety, she subtly adjusts their grocery totals to reach a base-ten number.
Seamus, a handsome house painter, is more intrigued by Grace's unique personality than bothered by the peculiar incident. Their connection deepens when they coincidentally meet again at her favorite café, leading Seamus to courageously offer his phone number.
Complex Characters and Relationships
The pairing of Grace and Seamus feels genuinely well-matched. Their chemistry is palpable, and the narrative avoids clichéd mathematical puns, instead focusing on authentic emotional growth. Teresa Palmer delivers a nuanced performance, skillfully communicating Grace's fluctuating mental state. Even when her character is on medication that she describes as emotionally numbing, Palmer ensures the audience remains empathetically engaged.
Joe Dempsie brings a dependable sweetness to the role of Seamus, reminiscent of his beloved performance as Gendry Baratheon in Game of Thrones. He portrays Seamus as consistently supportive, creating a stable presence amidst Grace's internal turbulence.
Family Dynamics and Tension
The introduction of Seamus to Grace's family adds another layer of tension. While her mother, played by Sarah Peirse, is warm and welcoming, her sister, portrayed by Adrienne Pickering, remains frosty and protective. The family's collective anxiety about how a new relationship might impact Grace's mental health is palpable and justified.
Despite Seamus's unwavering support and the couple's passionate connection, an underlying sense of impending crisis looms. The film sensitively explores how mental health conditions can affect intimate relationships without resorting to melodrama.
Artistic Vision and Execution
Director Marcelle Lunam employs creative techniques to immerse viewers in Grace's perspective. Visual elements like numbers flashing across objects help audiences understand her unique perception of the world. This approach is handled with sensitivity, and the comedic aspects of the film never belittle Grace or her condition.
Cinematographer Ginny Loane captures the film beautifully, with stunning set locations that add a touch of aspirational elegance. However, the screenplay by Becca Johnstone occasionally remains at a surface level, leaving some supporting characters with underdeveloped arcs.
A Worthwhile Cinematic Experience
Despite its exploration of dark subject matter, Addition provides a thoroughly enjoyable night at the movies. It is a film that invites repeat viewing, offering both heartfelt romance and thoughtful commentary. Its limited evening screenings in Canberra during opening week may raise concerns about its commercial longevity, but its artistic merits are undeniable.
Addition stands as a rare and valuable contribution to Australian cinema—a romantic comedy that embraces complexity, champions authentic representation, and proves that local stories can resonate deeply on the big screen.
