Stories from Life: Brian McFarlane Reviews
The Travellers and Kangaroo
In recent weeks, two new Australian films have quietly earned attention and appreciation: Kangaroo and The Travellers. Both are unpretentious, sensitive, and subtly crafted with elements of comedy and poignancy. These films are rendered in a way rarely seen or recognized in Australian cinema, offering a fresh take far from the styles of The Man from Snowy River or Mad Max.
Kangaroo: A Semi-Biographical Charm
Directed by Kate Woods, who is primarily known for TV work apart from her 2000 feature Looking for Alibrandi, Kangaroo stands out as a gentle, engaging film. It tells a semi-biographical story inspired by a true account, exploring a man's life and changing preoccupations. The film begins with two episodes introducing its protagonists.
“Inspired by a true story.”
The first scene, before the title appears, shows a young Indigenous girl named Charlie (played by Lily Whiteley) running through the vast Australian outback, accompanied by bounding kangaroos, setting a tone of connection with the land.
The Travellers: Warmth and Subtlety
The Travellers features performances by Luke Bracey, Brian Brown, and Susie Porter, and is noted for its warmth and nuanced storytelling. Like Kangaroo, it embraces quiet, understated narratives that resonate deeply without dramatic spectacle.
Summary
Both films represent a refreshing shift toward intimate, thoughtfully written Australian cinema that balances humor and emotion with subtle direction.
Author's summary: These two understated Australian films offer a rare blend of sensitivity and warmth, marking a welcome departure from typical cinematic conventions.
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