TIFF 2024: Thou Shalt Not Steal (Trailer Coming Soon)
TIFF 2024: Thou Shalt Not Steal – A Wild, Darkly Comedic Road Trip through the Outback
Get ready for a high-octane, darkly funny adventure across Australia’s vast Outback in Thou Shalt Not Steal, a new series premiering at TIFF 2024. Directed by Dylan River (Mystery Road: Origin), this 1980s-set road trip series stars rising talents Sherry-Lee Watson and Will McDonald, alongside Aussie icons Miranda Otto and Noah Taylor. With a mix of edgy humor, dramatic twists, and stunning scenery, this is one road trip you won’t forget.
The Story: On the Run with Robyn and Gidge
The series follows 17-year-old Robyn (Sherry-Lee Watson), a rebellious teen who escapes from juvenile detention, and Gidge (Will McDonald), a sweet but clueless guy who gets caught up in her wild journey. Together, they embark on an unpredictable road trip across the Outback, searching for answers about their troubled pasts.
Robyn, who’s tough as nails, soon learns a shocking truth about her father, sending her into an emotional tailspin. Meanwhile, Gidge, ever the innocent bystander, tries to make sense of their situation as the two become unlikely partners. But they’re not alone on this chaotic adventure. Hot on their heels are Gidge’s preacher father (Noah Taylor) and Maxine (Miranda Otto), a no-nonsense taxi driver who’s got her own reasons for tracking them down.
A Darkly Funny, 80s Vibe
Thou Shalt Not Steal brings a gritty 80s energy with a blend of dark comedy and drama that’s sure to hook you from the first episode. It’s End of the F**ing World* meets Fargo, with its own unique Australian twist. River’s sharp direction gives the show a raw, unfiltered feel, capturing the vastness of the Outback while diving deep into the messy lives of these unforgettable characters.
The dynamic between Robyn and Gidge is equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, as they navigate their own issues while dodging cops, preachers, and their dysfunctional families. The comedic moments are balanced with serious undertones, dealing with heavy topics like trauma and identity, but with a darkly humorous spin that keeps things from getting too heavy.
Standout Performances
Sherry-Lee Watson (Heartbreak High) shines as Robyn, bringing both fierceness and vulnerability to her character. Will McDonald’s portrayal of Gidge offers the perfect contrast—naïve and kindhearted, but thrown into a chaotic world he never expected. Together, they form an unlikely but endearing duo that carries the show’s emotional and comedic weight.
Veteran actors Miranda Otto and Noah Taylor bring their A-game as the bizarre, slightly sinister adults chasing after them. Otto’s character, Maxine, is especially captivating—a tough-as-nails taxi driver with her own hidden agenda.
Why You Should Watch It
If you’re into quirky, offbeat stories with a lot of heart and humor, Thou Shalt Not Steal is the series for you. It’s a fun, unpredictable ride through Australia’s wild Outback, filled with dramatic twists, sharp wit, and a whole lot of edge. Plus, the nostalgic 80s vibe adds an extra layer of style to the storytelling.
The series also offers a fresh perspective on coming-of-age, set against the backdrop of Australia’s breathtaking Northern Territory. It’s as much a visual treat as it is a character-driven story about survival, family, and finding your own path, even when everything around you is falling apart.
Showtimes at TIFF 2024
Catch Thou Shalt Not Steal at TIFF 2024 during these showtimes:
- Thursday, September 5 – 3:15 pm (Scotiabank Theatre)
- Sunday, September 8 – 8:45 pm (Scotiabank Theatre)
- Tuesday, September 10 – 6:05 pm (Scotiabank Theatre)
Don’t miss out on this darkly comic, thrilling road trip across the Outback! Thou Shalt Not Steal is shaping up to be one of the most exciting series to premiere at TIFF this year. Grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready for one wild ride.
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