BRAN NUE DAE (REVIEW)
In
the words of the great Geoffrey Rush, who told me himself, "This movie rocks!"
However, Bran Nue Dae, based on an Australian stage play of the same name, is
more show tunes than rock and roll party.
Set in the scenic
town of Broome, Western Australia, circa 1969, the story revolves around Willy,
played by 15 year old newcomer Rocky MacKenzie. He's a proud Aboriginal who loves
his hometown as well as the stunning girl Rosie (Jessica Mauboy). Reluctantly
Rocky is sent to boarding school, mainly to satisfy his mother's desire for him
to become a priest. When Willy stands up to the harsh punishment dished out by
the cherry ripe loving headmaster, Father Benedictus (Geoffrey Rush), he decides
to escape, fleeing the school with only one thought - get back to Broome.
Willy
befriends the local Hobo, who dubiously promises him to escort him home. Known
as Uncle Tadpole, they form an unlikely bond as they start their long journey
across all kinds of terrain, all the while Father Benedictus is in hot pursuit.
Along the way, an assortment of amusing characters pop up to lend a hand, including
a pair of hippies in a spaced out Kombi van.
The celebration
of indigenous identity is expressed in musical interludes. Every now and then,
which is actually quite often, the cast break out into song and dance. The routines
are inconsistent, while an unrelenting parade of stereotypes misuse much of the
goodwill after a promising start. The basic attraction of the film is the picturesque
landscapes - the standout camera work shows more of Australia than 'Australia
did. The likable humour from all the characters is also a bonus to the script
that makes them seem lovable. This even goes for the cranky Father Benedictus,
who is portrayed with vigour by Geoffrey Rush, obviously having a wonderful time
in the role.
Former junior boxer, Rocky (real name Phillip)
MacKenzie is pretty good in the lead, showing honesty in his love for Rosie, but
unable to summon the courage to tell her. Jessica Mauboy is an on-screen natural.
Cameos include Missy Higgins (as one of the helping hippies who overstayed their
welcome) and Magda Szubanski who adds a little comical seductive spice as Roadhouse
Betty, to the otherwise tame PG rated film. Director Rachel Perkins moves things
along at a reasonable pace - her second foray into Aboriginal musical territory
after collaborating with singer/songwriter Paul Kelly on his film, 'One Night
The Moon'.
Bran Nue Dae certainly has its moments and it ends
on a high note but if you're not really inclined to enjoy musicals where the actors
break into a song mid-sentence, give it a miss.
Shane
A. Bassett
