THE BANK

Director Robert Connolly / 2001 / Australia

Doyle is a genius working in the far reaches of mathematical theory, searching for a formula that can predict future stock market crashes. The potential in Jim's software fires the imagination and greed of Simon O'Reilly, the CEO of Centabank. O'Reilly's freewheeling management styte and negative performance are under attack by his Board. He's looking for the magic bullet to save his skin O'Reilly lures Jim to work for Centabank. With endless money and resources to play with. Jim perfects his theory. O'Reilly and the Bank's Board of Directors fall under the spell of his system and the wealth it could bring.

The Bank is a thriller about banking, corruption and alchemy. With outstanding performances by the charismatic David Wenham as Jim Doyle and Anthony LaPaglia as the scheming banker, Simon O'Reilly, The Bank weaves conspiracy and revenge into a modern Australian classic. Sibylla Budd, in her feature debut, is a smoothly sensual presence as Doyle's paramour. Connolly depicts Melbourne as a corporate jungle, alive with predators and plenty of prey. "We've now entered the age of corporate feudalism, and we are the new princes." declares the slick O'Reilly, pithily summarising a blind avarice that may lead to disaster.

The 2001 Melbourne International Film Festival Opening Night screening of The Bank will mark the films world premiere.

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