Main Cast: George Mallaby, John Waters, Ken Goodlet, Robert Hewett, Delvene Delaney
Release Year: 1975
Country: AU
Run Time: 110 minutes
Plot
Several female hitchhikers have been murdered in a small Australian seacoast community. The principal suspects are brothers Robert and Mark Gifford (George Mallaby and John Waters). One is an apparently helpless paraplegic, but this doesn't necessarily mean that the filmmakers are going to cop out with the "least likely suspect" revelation. We do know, however, that each brother is covering up for the other. Director/writer Tim Burstall imbues this filming of Russell Braddon'snovel Endplay with his expected healthy vulgarity and leering voyeurism. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
Review
This clever Australian effort pays homage to Hitchcock in an understated and effective fashion. Tim Burstall's script, adapted from the novel by Russell Braddon, takes its time to craft an engaging story and the rich characterizations needed to drive it while carefully building a sense of tension that results in memorable climax packed with head-spinning twists. As a director, Burstall handles the story in a confident but subtle fashion, avoiding flashy camerawork or editing in favor of straightforward style that is effective precisely because it doesn't call attention to itself and thus allows the viewer to be drawn into the story and performances. That said, the finale shows some impressive camera placement and well-timed editing that displays Burstall's high level of skill with this material. Best of all, End Play has two impressive performances to drive its narrative: John Waters underplays his role effectively, creating someone whose motives are mysterious up until the last moment, while George Mallaby brings great intensity and charisma to his flashy role as the handicapped but still forceful Robert. In short, End Play is a compelling thriller that earns its thrills on the merits of strong, inventive storytelling. Fans of mysteries and thrillers are likely to find it very entertaining. ~ Donald Guarisco, All Movie Guide
Kevin Miles - Charlie Bricknall; Charles "Bud" Tingwell - Dr. Fairburn; Walter Pym - Stanley Lipton; Sheila Florance - Mavis Lipton; Sheila Florence - Mavis Lipton; Adrian Wright - Andrew Gifford; Belinda Giblin - Margaret Gifford
Credit
Bill Hutchinson - Art Director, Alan Finney - Associate Producer, Tim Burstall - Director, David Bilcock, Jr. - Editor, Robin Copping - Cinematographer, Tim Burstall - Producer, Barbi Taylor - Unit Production Manager, Tim Burstall - Screenwriter, Russell Braddon - Book Author
