Sucker

Sucker follows a familiar template as a disillusioned teenager with an uncertain future runs away with a con man and his daughter for a life on the road, where he is taught the tricks of the trade while also learning valuable lessons. Despite its obviousness, Sucker is loosely based on the true story of the early life experiences of Lawrence Leung, an Australian standup comic and star of Aussie TV who co-wrote the script with director Ben Chessell. It's standard, sweet, and predictable fare, but sadly bogged down by its lead, John Luc, a young actor who shot to fame as a YouTube celeb. Luc simply can't keep up with his fellow actors, in particular the great Timothy Spall, who stars as the troubled con man struggling to ply his trade while providing for his teenage daughter as they traverse the Australian backcountry. Still, despite the thespian gap, Sucker is a charming film that offers brief glimpses into the world of Asian immigrants living in Australia. A strong optional purchase. (P. Morehart)