In Traction Poster

In Traction 1986

50 min📅 1986-08-20

In Traction (1986) delivers a darkly comedic twist on hospital-bound misfortune when a man's botched suicide attempt leaves him stuck in a hospital bed—right as a group of rowdy juvenile delinquents arrives for a visit.

Director: David Wickham

Cast

Joe Mullaney
Jonesy
Caroline Paterson
Caroline Paterson
Anna
Robert Patterson
Mr. Gentle
Leonard O'Malley
Derek
Matthew Hodgman
Keith
Angie Murphy
Helen
John McGlynn
Mr. Wright
Una MacNab
Nurse
Andrew Barr
Jack Soutar
James Kennedy
Brian Henderson

Frequently Asked Questions

What is In Traction (1986) about?

In Traction follows a man whose poorly executed suicide attempt fails, leaving him hospitalized—and then terrorized by a group of juvenile delinquents forced to visit him. The film turns a grim premise into a darkly comedic battle of wits, as he must navigate his physical confinement while dealing with their chaotic presence.

Who directed In Traction?

David Wickham directed In Traction (1986), helming this Australian TV movie with a knack for blending dark humor and confined settings.

Who stars in In Traction?

The film stars Joe Mullaney, Caroline Paterson, Robert Patterson, Leonard O'Malley, and Matthew Hodgman in its ensemble cast.

Is In Traction (1986) worth watching?

As a short-form comedy with a unique premise, In Traction (1986) offers a quirky, if uneven, take on dark humor. Fans of 1980s Australian TV movies may find its blend of farce and pathos entertaining, though its unrated status leaves some mystery about its reception.

How long is In Traction?

In Traction runs for 50 minutes, a compact runtime typical of TV movies from this era.

About In Traction (1986): A Dark Comedy of Hospital Woes and Unwanted Guests

In Traction (1986) delivers a darkly comedic twist on hospital-bound misfortune when a man's botched suicide attempt leaves him stuck in a hospital bed—right as a group of rowdy juvenile delinquents arrives for a visit. Directed by David Wickham, this Australian TV movie blends sharp wit with understated chaos, turning a seemingly grim situation into a farcical battle of wits and endurance. The confined setting amplifies the tension, as the protagonist's despair collides with the unruly energy of his unexpected guests.

The film's strength lies in its cast, led by Joe Mullaney and Caroline Paterson, whose performances anchor the absurdity with just the right mix of vulnerability and defiance. As a comedy, In Traction (1986) mines humor from desperation, playing with themes of resilience and the unpredictability of human behavior. Wickham's direction keeps the tone light yet edgy, ensuring the 50-minute runtime never drags.