Stories from Life: Brian McFarlane Reviews
The Travellers and Kangaroo
Two recent Australian films, Kangaroo and The Travellers, have quietly drawn attention with their unpretentious and sensitive storytelling. Both blend comedy and poignancy with subtle direction, offering a tone distinct from iconic films like The Man from Snowy River or Mad Max.
Kangaroo: A Semi-Biographical Tale
Directed by Kate Woods, who is mostly known for her television work apart from the 2000 film Looking for Alibrandi, Kangaroo stands out as a charming film inspired by a true story. It presents a man’s life and evolving preoccupations in a non-traditional biopic format.
The film opens with two episodes introducing the protagonists. The first scene shows a young Indigenous girl, Charlie (played by Lily Whiteley), running across a panoramic Australian outback with kangaroos bounding alongside.
As the opening title states, the film was "inspired by a true story."
The Travellers: Warmth and Subtlety
The Travellers features performances by Luke Bracey, Brian Brown, and Susie Porter. The film is noted for its warmth and subtlety, emphasizing delicate narratives and authentic portrayals.
Summary
These two films mark a nuanced and quietly compelling addition to Australian cinema, highlighting sensitive storytelling and understated direction.
Author's summary: Both Kangaroo and The Travellers bring subtlety and warmth to Australian cinema, blending comedy and drama with careful, unassuming storytelling.
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