Whale Shark Jack is a heartfelt Aussie family film that makes a splash, and is now streaming on Stan.
Given the world’s state of flux and commotion, there’s no better time to seek comfort on the screen. So gather the family from wherever each of them are doomscrolling, give the dog some space on the couch, and settle in for Whale Shark Jack. It’s a cut above your usual local family fare: when we get it right, we really do. Think Storm Boy, Happy Feet, Babe: Pig in the City.
The film, a Stan Original, was written by novelist and screenwriter Kathryn Lefroy, who released a book version of Whale Shark Jack in early March to coincide with the movie announcement. It also marks the first feature-length effort for sibling directors Miranda and Khrob Edwards.
Stunning locations and standout performances
One of the film’s key drawcards is the Western Australian landscape, where the redness and remoteness of central Australia meet the stunning shorelines of the Indian Ocean. There’s a good reason Ningaloo Reef is a World Heritage Site: it’s gobsmackingly divine to behold. But there are other great drawcards, too.
Another asset, just as enticing, is the versatile and captivating Abbie Cornish. She plays Nita Keele, a talented marine biologist whose life has been entirely dedicated to the ocean, until a disaster threatens to throw her career and her life into turmoil. Cornish is, unsurprisingly, adept at capturing the devastation of sudden loss. She reveals Nita’s depths as a mother, lover, and scientist who comes alive in the rawness of the natural world.
Alyla Browne, who starred in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, plays Nita’s daughter Sarah, who, after the devastating loss of her dad, believes that if her best friend, Jack the whale shark, migrates to her new home in Exmouth, a pleasant normal life will resume. Perhaps her mum will take them back out on the boat, just like before. When that doesn’t happen, and Jack remains somewhere out there, Sarah takes matters into her own hands.
A scene-stealing debut from Jayden Boundry
Special mention also goes to Jayden Boundry, who makes his debut as the big-hearted Peter Cooper, a Baiyungu man. Boundry, a Noongar language teacher, may be recognised by some as an enormously talented didgeridoo player who has performed at major sporting events, as well as a dancer and author of children’s books. It’s also a welcome sight to have Australian icon and screen legend Rachel Ward as Aunty Dot.
For every parent – or non-parent – who cried at the finale of Dot and the Kangaroo (I confess, I am one of them), the opportunity to remind ourselves of the sacredness of children’s affinity with animals is not to be missed. Just as we rescue dogs and cats, rabbits and rats, Sarah has rescued Jack. There’s immense sweetness to her natural, unspoken language with him – so much simpler than making friends with other kids once she is forced to live on land again.
More ocean-themed Aussie gems
If the movie magic keeps the family together long enough, why not extend the viewing with some more Aussie classics available on Stan? Not far removed from Whale Shark Jack in theme, the Tim Winton adaptation Blueback follows young Abby (Ilsa Fogg), who befriends a wild blue groper while diving and discovers her true passion in life.
Continuing the aquatic theme, there’s also Magic Beach, which brings to the screen author Alison Lester’s beloved kids’ book. It draws nine children and their dog into a world of imagination and underwater wonderment, full of mythical creatures and absurd adventures. Both Blueback and Magic Beach were directed by another Aussie icon: filmmaker Robert Connolly (Balibo, The Dry, Paper Planes, The Bank).
These films remind us that while the world may look bleak in the headlines, it’s endlessly beautiful and surprising. Rediscover that beauty in the tenderness and simplicity of Whale Shark Jack – then book your trip to Ningaloo Reef.
