Watch Needle in the Hay

Needle in the Hay is a 2011 Australian independent movie that tells the story of Ben, a film director who becomes obsessed with locating an old reel of film shot by his grandfather during World War II. Ben believes that the footage holds a clue to a family mystery that he is determined to solve. The movie starts by introducing us to Ben, played by Luke James Southern, who is a struggling filmmaker dealing with the death of his mother. His grandfather, who fought in the war, passed away 10 years ago, and left behind a stash of old film reels. Among these reels is a mysterious one, titled "Needle in the Hay," which Ben has never seen.

As Ben tries to come to terms with his grief, he becomes more and more fixated on finding the missing reel. He hires a private investigator, played by Peter Clatworthy, to help him track it down. Along the way, Ben meets a host of interesting people, including a barmaid named Angela, played by Jessica Napier, who becomes his romantic interest, and a homeless man named Malcolm, played by Andrew Lancaster, who has a surprising connection to Ben's family.

As the search for the missing reel becomes more intense, Ben's mental state starts to unravel. He starts seeing things that may or may not be real, and his relationships suffer as a result. His obsession with the film takes him to some dark places, as he becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid.

One of the remarkable things about Needle in the Hay is its unique structure. The movie is presented as a series of interviews with Ben's friends, family, and colleagues. These interviews add depth to the story, as we see how Ben's actions affect the people around him. They also give the movie a documentary-style feel, which works well with Ben's search for the lost film.

The acting is excellent across the board. Southern gives a nuanced performance as the troubled Ben, and his chemistry with Napier is believable and engaging. Lancaster is also excellent as the enigmatic Malcolm, who adds a sense of mystery to the movie. Clatworthy is solid as the private investigator, providing some much-needed comic relief.

The movie's cinematography is another standout feature. The film is shot in a relatively low-key style, with a muted color palette that reflects Ben's melancholic mood. The camera is often handheld, which adds to the movie's documentary feel. There are also several beautiful shots of the Australian countryside, which offers a nice contrast to the movie's darker moments.

Overall, Needle in the Hay is a compelling movie that explores themes of loss, grief, and family history. Its unique structure and excellent acting make it a must-see for fans of independent cinema. The movie's slow pace and downbeat tone might not be for everyone, but for those who are willing to invest in its characters, it offers a rewarding and emotional experience.