No. 44 (2022) THE DROVER'S WIFE June 6th.

 

Film No. 44  (2022) June 6th.  2:50 PM  EVENT CINEMAS,  Innaloo.

"I'll fight for my children. I'll fight for my life. If I have to I will" (Molly sets down her priorities of survival when faced with danger and adversity; a gun armed and raised).

Leah Purcell has created a very fine film in THE DROVERS WIFE. Taking an iconic Australian short story, written by a literary legend (Henry Lawson), recreating it as a novel (The Legend of Molly Johnson) and a play before turning her hand to this feature film proves the talent that is Leah Purcell. I hope many people take to cinemas, soon, to catch THE DROVER'S WIFE.

The film is a dark story of resilience, generosity, loyalty, devotion and sacrifice. Every one of these qualities stream through the veins of Molly Johnson (Leah Purcell). Molly is a strong, handsome woman living with secrets, and while the themes of First Nation people and Female rights are told one dimensionally, what good western hasn't made their message simple but strong in the past; THE SEARCHES, RED RIVER, HIGH COUNTRY included?

But it is Purcell and cinematographer Mark Wearham who combine to power this compelling film to great heights. Molly lives alone, except for her four children, in the wild terrain that is the southern Snowy Mountains, in turn of the century New South Wales. Wearham's eye captures the wild, beauty that Molly exists in. The solid ramshackle house a fortress for Molly to proudly call home, a fortress to protect all she loves. 

The fact Molly becomes a legend (fictional) says much about the dark path this story is headed. Where is her husband Joe? Molly seems unconcerned that her bread-winner has not returned from duties in the bush. Her defining relationship with Yadaka (Rob Collins), a first nations prisoner on the run, reveals unexpected truth and a chance to learn that an adult male can be trusted; a new experience for Molly.

Ultimately her greatest male ally is her oldest son, 12 year old freckly Danny in who she places her trust. She sacrifices all, knowing young Danny will protect all she loves and holds true. Malachi Dower-Roberts and Purcell play their partnership with great empathy and skill. The final scene will warm your heart after all that has cooled it. 10GUMS.