Olivia Colman Stars in Australian Dark Comedy The Fox

Olivia Colman stars in the Australian dark comedy 'The Fox', which arrives in theaters on December 4 through Aura Entertainment. The film, directed by Dario Russo, features Colman in an unexpected role as a rogue fox who offers a bargain to a wealthy heir.

'The Fox' is set for a cinema release in Australia on December 4, with a US release also scheduled for the same day. The film is produced by Kristina Ceyton, Samantha Jennings, and Carly Maple. There is currently no UK release date announced.

Star-studded ensemble

The film features an extensive Australian and international cast. Olivia Colman leads as the titular rogue fox, a role described as "excellent" by Variety. Jai Courtney plays Nick, the amiable heir to a wealthy rural landowner. Emily Browning plays Kori, Nick's fiancée who is having an affair.

Sam Neill appears as The Magpie in one of his final film roles. The supporting cast includes Damon Herriman, Claudia Doumit, Zlatko Burić, Frankie J. Holden, Heather Mitchell, Kim Gyngell, and Miranda Otto.

Career significance

Sam Neill's appearance in 'The Fox' marks one of his final roles. The 'Jurassic Park' star died at age 78 in July from pneumonia. His performance as The Magpie adds a poignant note to the film's release.

Critical reception

Early critical reactions have praised the film's tone and humor. Film Festival Today highlighted its consistent tone and infectious dramatic mayhem. Warped Perspective described 'The Fox' as 'achingly funny from the very start'.

The film is a modern fable that tackles themes of gender politics and male entitlement. Its plot involves Nick capturing the rogue fox, who offers him a bargain to transform his troubled relationship. The proposed solution involves pushing Kori into a mysterious hole capable of changing her into the perfect partner.

Director Dario Russo wrote, directed, and edited the film. The story draws on Japanese, Chinese, and Korean folklore, particularly the myth of the Japanese Kitsune, a shapeshifting fox spirit. This folklore intersects with Australian history, as foxes were introduced to the country from England in the 1860s for hunting and have since established themselves nationwide.

Aura Entertainment shared the trailer ahead of the December release. The film is described as a supernatural dark comedy exploring contradictions in human relationships. 'The Fox' arrives in theaters on December 4 through Aura Entertainment.