Movie review: "Son Of Rambow" (2007)

The gist: It's the early '80s and two Pommy students have been turfed out of class: one for misbehaving, the other 'cos his religion doesn't permit him to watch TV. Soon, the tearaway and the dreamer will become unlikely mates and a pirate video of "First Blood" will lead 'em to film their own epic actioner.

Selling points: All-ages comedy that doesn't descend into schmaltz, although the boys' initial stunts give the false impression they're as indestructible as cartoon characters.

It's kinda like: The stereotypes of a teen drama (tough older brother, cool exchange student, gaggle of Mean Girls, etc.) crossed with the social conscience of an indie flick (neglected kid versus overly sheltered kid)...crossed with "Rambo".

Final word: This Little Johnny joke's actually funny.

[Australian cinema release date: September 4]