Ludmiller's family struggles to stay united when the eldest brother D (Pete Murray), a recovering drug addict, returns home. D worked in the illegal drug business with Chris's uncle Nic Townsend. D's own drug problem sent him to rehab for eighteen months, away from his little sister and two younger brothers. The youngest brother, Ivan is best friends with Chris. The craziness which follows D's vocation had dissipated in his absence but returns to the family when he comes home. When D arrives, Nic proposes working together again and the truth about Chris' home life is revealed. As Ludmiller and the family step up to help Chris they risk the ire of Nic.
Josh's deeply moving performance as Chris has been an increasing topic in the press for this award-winning actor (Kieser has received Best Actor awards for his role in the LGBT film Papercut from the Melbourne City Independent Film Awards, Rainbow Umbrella Film Festival, Gold Movie Awards Goddess Nike, and numerous others). The actor's ability to communicate great/quiet intensity is transfixing. Even with just a look or body language, the audience feels the inner turmoil of the constant anguish of Chris. He's trapped and looking for a safe haven of any kind. What Kieser does above all is play Chris in a way that keeps one wondering if he will accept the light he searches for or succumb to the darkness around him. Director Brad McMurray states, "Josh is an amazingly talented performer. He isn't afraid of a challenge. He's always kind and ready for a laugh but you'd never guess that from watching this film. He was able to bring such depth to the role of Chris; it truly made our film exceptional. You can see the dedication to his craft."
Thicker Than Water is surprising in the way that it questions what family means and what family is capable of, both good and bad. It's a story about people you probably don't like or respect and how they choose to redeem themselves or wallow in their own selfishness. It's a reflection of humanity that is challenging and informative.