Based on the true story of a youth from Brisbane, Australia, who overcame family dysfunction to become a world-class athlete, director
Russell Mulcahy's drama centers on young Tony Fingleton's (
Jesse Spencer) relationship with his distant father, Harold (
Geoffrey Rush), and the dedication it took to win his respect. Born into a large family and convinced by his father that he will never amount to the achievements of his brothers, Tony attempts to win his father's respect by becoming a champion swimmer. Despite his best efforts to please his father, Tony also begins to realize his own self-worth in the process. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide