In an unexplained, post-apocalyptic Aussie outback, the car of an intense loner (a terrific Guy Pearce) is stolen by a trio of outlaws. Dude really wants his crummy McGuffin car back. Why? The thieves leave behind a wounded, brain-addled comrade (Robert Pattinson) whom the Guy guy abducts to help find his precious car.

Things get violent, brutal, and all around ugly. This Aussie noir by David Michod (Animal Kingdom) is bleak, nihilistic, and fashionably grim. Imagine a slow Mad Max with hints of Wake in Fright and The Road. Not a laff riot, but somehow compelling, and not quickly forgotten. Japanese title: Dakkansha. (106 min)