This odd documentary is for the audience that can't get enough of off-center, real-life tales akin to those captured by Errol Morris (Gates of Heaven). In the 1930s Australian sugar-cane farmers imported the bufo marinus, or cane toad, from Hawaii to destroy the crop-damaging greyback beetle. In short, the descendents of the original 102 toads virtually took over half a continent. We hear from all sides about the problem: the scientific studies of their mating habits (bruising), defense systems (poison that can kill a predator), and their eating habits (almost anything). Much of Mark Lewis's short film sticks with the common folk and their polarized feelings about the animal. Told with a great amount of wit, this 1987 documentary illustrates that the strangest things on film are always true. -Doug Thomas.

Bruno Gunther is a feisty, 14-year-old immigrant, growing up in a small farming community in South Australia during the 1930s. While his stern German father preaches hard work, Bruno is constantly tempted by the chance to do mischief. Whether it is startling a prim teacher as he flees from a runaway bull clad only in his underwear or organizing a "race" between two feuding neighbours, Bruno's world is an idyllic one. His high spirits will sustain him as his close-knit family experiences some dark times - and the memories of this gentle world will remain with him forever. Parents and children alike will love this unforgettable tale that captures a special time when a boy hovers on the verge of manhood.