In a world where streaming platforms are flooded with countless titles vying for attention, one film has quietly risen above the noise to claim the coveted top spot globally: The Dry, starring Eric Bana. While many fans initially believed Bana’s recent Netflix series Untamed was the pinnacle of his craft, this Australian mystery-thriller has proven otherwise, delivering a cinematic experience so gripping, so emotionally charged, and so masterfully crafted that it’s left audiences worldwide stunned. If you haven’t yet watched The Dry, prepare to be drawn into a world of drought-stricken landscapes, buried secrets, and a performance from Bana that cements his place as one of Australia’s finest actors.

The Dry, directed by Robert Connolly and adapted from Jane Harper’s bestselling 2016 novel, tells the story of Aaron Falk, a federal agent who returns to his drought-ravaged hometown of Kiewarra, Victoria, after a 20-year absence. Falk, portrayed with a quiet intensity by Bana, is summoned back to attend the funeral of his childhood friend Luke Hadler, who is believed to have committed a horrific murder-suicide, killing his wife and son before taking his own life. But as Falk digs deeper, he uncovers layers of mystery that intertwine with a decades-old tragedy—the unsolved death of a teenage girl, Ellie, for which he was once blamed. The film weaves a complex narrative, blending past and present, as Falk navigates a community simmering with suspicion, grief, and long-held grudges.

What sets The Dry apart from other thrillers is its ability to balance a slow-burning investigation with profound emotional depth. The Australian outback, depicted in stark, dusty hues, becomes a character in its own right—a tinderbox of tension where the unrelenting drought mirrors the parched relationships and hidden truths among the townsfolk. The cinematography captures the harsh beauty of rural Australia with a raw authenticity rarely seen on screen, grounding the story in a setting that feels both universal and uniquely Australian. This is not the exaggerated outback of tourist brochures but a lived-in, weathered landscape that shapes the people who endure it.

Bana’s performance as Aaron Falk is nothing short of mesmerizing. Known for roles in films like Chopper and Munich, he brings a restrained yet powerful presence to Falk, a man haunted by his past yet determined to uncover the truth. His subtle expressions—eyes that convey both resolve and vulnerability—draw viewers into Falk’s inner conflict without ever overpowering the story. Unlike the bombastic heroes of typical thrillers, Falk is a quiet observer, piecing together clues while grappling with his own guilt and the town’s lingering resentment. Bana’s ability to convey so much with so little is a testament to his skill, making every moment he’s on screen magnetic.

The supporting cast is equally compelling, bringing depth to the small-town dynamics. Genevieve O’Reilly shines as Gretchen, Falk’s former friend and potential love interest, whose warmth hides her own painful secrets. Keir O’Donnell delivers a standout performance as Greg Raco, the local sergeant who aids Falk’s investigation with a mix of earnestness and curiosity. The ensemble, including actors like John Polson and Matt Nable, portrays a community where everyone knows everyone else’s business—or thinks they do—creating a web of suspicion that keeps viewers guessing until the final, shocking revelations.

The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to build gradually as Falk uncovers new evidence. Flashbacks to his youth, featuring a younger Falk played by Joe Klocek, add layers to the mystery, revealing the tangled relationships and betrayals that shaped the present. These scenes are shot with a grainy, nostalgic filter, contrasting the harsh clarity of the present-day investigation. The haunting rendition of “Under The Milky Way” by BeBe Bettencourt, sung during a pivotal flashback, lingers long after the credits roll, evoking the bittersweet ache of lost youth and unresolved grief.

The Dry succeeds not only as a mystery but as a meditation on memory, community, and the weight of the past. The film explores how small towns can harbor big secrets, where loyalty and betrayal coexist uneasily. It asks difficult questions: How do we confront the mistakes of our youth? Can truth ever fully heal old wounds? These themes resonate universally, making the film accessible to audiences far beyond Australia, yet its distinctly Australian flavor—its language, its landscape, its understated humor—grounds it in a specific cultural context that feels fresh and authentic.

The film’s global success is no fluke. Since its release in Australia on January 1, 2021, The Dry has captivated audiences, becoming one of the highest-grossing Australian films of all time. Its recent surge to the top of streaming charts, particularly on Hulu in the U.S., has introduced it to a new wave of viewers who are discovering its brilliance. The film’s 90% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes reflects its critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its taut storytelling and Bana’s commanding performance. Audiences, too, have embraced it, with an 89% approval rating, drawn to its emotional resonance and unpredictable plot twists.

For those who thought Untamed showcased Bana at his best, The Dry raises the bar even higher. While Untamedthrives on its fast-paced, action-driven narrative, The Dry is a masterclass in subtlety, proving that a thriller doesn’t need explosions or car chases to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Its psychological intensity and intricate character work make it a standout in the genre, offering a richer, more reflective experience that lingers long after the final scene.

The film’s success has also paved the way for a sequel, Force of Nature: The Dry 2, released in 2024, which sees Bana reprise his role as Falk in a new mystery set in the lush, rain-soaked Victorian mountains—a stark contrast to the arid setting of the first film. While the sequel has its merits, it’s the original The Dry that remains the crown jewel, a film that captures the essence of human struggle against an unforgiving backdrop.

If you’re looking for a thriller that combines heart-pounding suspense with profound emotional depth, The Dry is a must-watch. It’s a film that demands your attention, pulling you into a world where every glance, every silence, and every dusty horizon holds a clue to the truth. Eric Bana has delivered a performance for the ages, and The Dry stands as a testament to the power of storytelling done right. Don’t miss it—or you’ll be left wondering why everyone else is talking about the film that’s taken the world by storm.