He discovers a new sense of purpose thanks to a group of similarly stuck-in-a-rut guys who have found camaraderie and self-worth through synchronised swimming.
Sure, they may be a bit paunchy, but they are determined to prove that they have what it takes to win the ultimate prize: the world championship.
Swimming With Men (M) will screen in an afternoon matinee on Sunday, April 21, at 1.30pm. Tickets are $10 and include afternoon tea following the film.
The second film in the double bill on Saturday and Sunday evenings is the gripping, Journey’s End (M).
It is March 1918 and C Company arrives to take its turn in the front-line trenches of northern France, led by war-weary Captain Stanhope.
With a German offensive fast approaching, they use food and memories of life before the war to distract themselves.
In contrast a newly arrived young officer is excited to be serving under Stanhope, his former school monitor, as tensions build before the attack.
The double feature will screen on Saturday, April 20, at 6pm and on Sunday, April 21, at 5pm. Please note the earlier times because of the end of daylight saving.
Screening on the Anzac weekend of April 27 and 28 is the amazing technical master-piece by filmmaker Peter Jackson, They Shall Not Grow Old (MA15+).
Using state-of-the-art technology and archive materials from the BBC and Imperial War Museum, the story of World War I is recreated in colour.
Lip readers were used to understand the silent film footage and provide authentic dialogue.
Life on the Western Front is explored through the voices of the soldiers, who discuss their feelings about the conflict, the food they ate, the friends they made and their dreams of the future.
The second film screening is a new Australian classic, Jindabyne (M).
Director Ray Lawrence followed up his award-winning film Lantana with this film based on a short story by Raymond Carver.
It’s a subtle, powerful tale about doubt, guilt and personal responsibility.
Four men, on an annual fishing trip in isolated high country find a girl’s body in the river, but delay reporting it until the next day.
Compelling from first frame to end credits.
The high country scenery is, of course, breathtaking.
The candy bar always opens half an hour before screening, so that patrons can purchase freshly ground coffee, homemade biscuits, sweets and choc-top ice-creams. Pastries can be ordered for a light meal at interval.
●For more information, visit www.swanpoolcinema.com.au or phone the cinema on (03)57682415.