The film follows a group of skinheads. Nazi skinheads in Melbourne put their rivals who struggle them on local Vietnamese, who are seemed to threaten racial purity.
Exploits the frustration, anger and violence of a despicable subculture while excusing the glorification of its hate aesthetic as necessary "reporting."
I like to think of it as a fury-filled documentary on how hate is not just an American preoccupation. Remember, this is the way things are -- deal with it.
Romper Stomper is a convincing depiction of subculture, and one that dares to present these figures as real, troubled individuals rather than stereotypes.
It's merely another violent art house picture, slumming modishly in the world of psycho-personalities, and exhibiting only occasional flashes of originality.
Crowe is powerful and terrifying, and the erotic chemistry between Pollock and McKenzie is no less intense and enriched by strong performances by both.
Given his formidable presence and equal talent, it was only a matter of time before New Zealand-born, Australian-raised Russell Crowe made the mainstream American breakthrough he enjoyed with Gladiator.
Variety
June 09, 2008
Romper Stomper is A Clockwork Orange without the intellect.
