Glenn Archer says confidence is the key for North Melbourne as it looks to replicate its stunning run during the second half of 2012.

The side of 2012 had similarities to the side of 1993 which made a leap after several years where potential and brilliance was shown in glimpses. In a good sign for the current crop of Roos, Archer spoke glowingly of what the team gained from 1993.

"We got a heap of confidence out of the '93 season. We actually should have finished on top that season but we lost to the Bulldogs in the last round which took us down to third and the Bulldogs were on the bottom of the ladder too.

"Through that season we were the best team in the home and away so we gained a lot of confidence out of that. Confidence is a massive thing, particularly when you're young.

"We've got a lot of young players at the moment and once they get that confidence that they're worthy of a spot in the team, they've had some success and they can come up against the older players and teams and beat them, you don't go into games as nervous as you used to."

While 2012's Kangaroos weren't the best team in the league over the whole home and away season, in Archer's opinion the nine-week period between Round 13 to 21 showed they could be as good as any team. And it's the disappointing ending in Perth that could end up being a learning tool during 2013.

Facing only one bottom eight opponent from 2012 twice in 2013 means the draw is much trickier. But Archer says it shouldn't effect the playing group's thinking.

"As soon as you start looking at the draw and think, 'oh, this is going to be hard', you'll have a negative mindset straight away. If their mindset is 'we can beat anyone' - which they can - they'll be fine.

"I reckon the key is if they get off to a flyer, because they were chasing towards the end of last season to get into the finals. So if they have a really good start, then it gives Brad an opportunity to tinker with the team and possibly rest some players."

The new players who have arrived at the club over the summer  should create an increased competition for spots. The likes of Ben Jacobs, Taylor Hine and Jordan Gysberts are all fighting for a Round 1 spot.

"From season to season, things change, other guys pop up with good pre-seasons and the coach wants to try some new things. Very rarely you'll finish a season with a 22 and then start the next season with almost the same 22, so I would imagine there will probably be about three or four changes," Archer said.

However it's a player who's been in the North system for a few seasons now that Archer has his eye on, and it may be a bit of a surprise considering the three-pronged forward line that was a great strength for the Kangaroos.

"I'm a big wrap for Aaron Black. He's obviously a big guy so he's taken a bit longer than the smaller guys to develop. Big, strong guys with a presence are hard to come by and I reckon he's definitely got it."

Black showed promise in his three senior games in 2012, his three goal game against Brisbane in Round 9 the highlight.

While Archer is anticipating a big season for his beloved Roos, he's got some other interests which he hopes will achieve some success.
The former defender is preparing for the nationwide premiere of his new movie Blinder, on which he is executive producer.  It hits cinemas on March 7, and the Shinboner of the Century is counting down the days.

"I'm one of the only ones who've seen the finished product and I'm very impressed, I can't wait for everyone to see it.

"It's pretty exciting to be involved in a film that all the big guys - Village, Hoyts, Greater Union - they've all taken it on so they're pretty happy with it and we're excited.”

While Archer played a minor role on set, it was behind the scenes where he had most of his influence.

"I helped out with the dialogue of the script. I'm sure the guys that played under Denis Pagan will recognise a few of his speeches.

"Some of the actors we've got are absolute superstars. Jack Thompson is obviously a Hollywood star and Josh Helman who plays a major part is now a Hollywood star as well after being in Jack Reacher with Tom Cruise. It was a really good cast."

"I want every North Melbourne supporter to go watch Blinder on March 7."

Watch the trailer for Blinder