Joey (1997 film)
| Company type | Distribution company |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film distribution |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Products | Film distribution |
Joey is a 1997 Australian film aimed at children, which premiered in theaters across Australia on December 26, 1997, under the distribution of Roadshow Entertainment. In the United States, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer released it directly to video on June 16, 1998, followed by a Japanese release on August 6, 1999.
Plot
Billy, a rural boy, embarks on a mission to rescue a baby kangaroo named Joey after its family is captured and transported to Sydney. Alongside Linda, the daughter of the American Ambassador, they collaborate to save Joey and uncover unlawful activities related to kangaroo boxing.
Summary
Residing in the countryside, Billy McGregor forms a bond with a kangaroo family consisting of Kim, Wal, and their joey, Joey. When the Dixon family hunts on their property, Billy narrowly evades capture during a chase. At school, he encounters disciplinary challenges and disputes with the Dixons, who threaten legal proceedings over his trespassing. Meanwhile, Billy’s family faces financial hardship as their home risks foreclosure unless $50,000 is secured by October.
The Dixons employ an individual to capture kangaroos for Kangaroo Kingdom, an illegal boxing operation in Sydney. While most kangaroos are sedated during the roundup, Joey escapes but is soon discovered by Billy and his Aboriginal friend Mick. Despite cautions, Billy hides Joey at his home for protection.
Using money from a local animal welfare group, Billy purchases a train ticket to Sydney with Joey concealed inside his jacket. Upon arrival, he meets Linda who initially declines to assist but changes her mind after understanding Joey’s situation. Together they attempt to locate Kangaroo Kingdom but are unable to immediately liberate the captured kangaroos.
Animal rights advocate Sylvia Vanguard, who had previously shut down Kangaroo Kingdom, supports them at her estate before they return to confront the facility. Billy and Linda recruit journalists John O'Bannon and Davo to interrupt live television coverage and broadcast the illegal boxing event nationwide.
This exposure sparks public outrage; authorities intervene and arrest those responsible. The campaign generates $50,000 through the Help Billy Help Joey initiative, enabling Billy to save his family’s home. The story concludes with farm life restored and a strong friendship established between Billy and Linda.
Cast
- Jamie Croft as Billy McGregor
- Alex McKenna as Linda Ross
- Rebecca Gibney as Penny McGregor
- Ed Begley Jr. as Ambassador Ted Ross
- Peter Kowitz as Senator
- George Kapiniaris as Spiros
- Richard Moir as School Teacher
- Tony Briggs as Mick
- Harold Hopkins as Kanga catcher