Oh Lord. Samson and Delilah was a long, depressing and earnestly worthy film about two Aboriginal kids leaving their isolated community, losing their way (literally and metaphorically) then finding their way home again (literally and metaphorically). The movie was framed by the harsh, bright heat lamps of the outback and filled with dust, dirt and deprivation. I applaud the writer and director for highlighting the harsh realities of what it’s like being young and Aboriginal, an outcast from society, but there was very little in either petrol-sniffing Samson or good-hearted Delilah that I loved, related to or wanted to support.
could it be that you had little which you loved, related to or wanted to support in the characters because you have no concept of their plight?
-Jetsetting Joyce..?
Jetset yourself into the realities of Aboriginal communities and then get back to me. Dale. Brisbane.
At The Movies, ABC TV
“…one of the most wonderful films this country has ever produced.”
Margaret (five stars) *****
David (five stars) *****
I think people are hesitant to rate this film as ‘NOT’ because they don’t want to appear ignorant of Indiginous issues. I think there is a difference between being sensitive to and educated about Indiginous culture and issues, and simply having the right to not like the movie!
Thanks for all your comments.
I am definitely in the minority on this one – at the screening my friend loved it, declaring it to be one of the best films she’d seen all year. A bunch of international film festival juries have also showered it with accolades.
That’s ok. I’m comfortable with my initial impression of the film, and I don’t think it necessarily reflects an inability to sympathise or relate to the realities of what it’s like to be a marginalised and disenfranchised part of the community.
Jetsetting Joyce