Film Analysis Of The Movie 'Sapphires'

Australian Gems

Don’t worry about the world ending; it’s already tomorrow in Australia- Destiny Hoskins

Since the beginnings of cinema in Australia from around 1896, Australian films have charted a range of views of the Australian identity, most specifically Australian Rules directed by Paul Goldman and Sapphires directed by Wayne Blair. Movies like these two gems deserve to be recognised and put into “The Hall of Fame” along with all the other masterpieces produced.

Why are these movies worthy of the limelight you ask? Well for starters both of these movies portray that of our indigenous culture, which is usually left out of films. They display the hardships they endured, and how if we only put aside all of our differences and worked together

This movie is based on a true story, about four extraordinary Aboriginal women. Sisters Laurel Robinson, Lois Peeler and their cousins Beverley Briggs and Naomi Mayers. They were part of an extended family of brothers and sisters who regularly sang together during the 1960s and 70’s. Laurel and Lois toured Vietnam in the late 1960s singing to the American troops which was an amazing feat, considering that Aboriginal people had only just gained the right to vote. All four of these women still live in Australia and all have important roles within the community.

“Based off a true story”

The Sapphires reminds the audience of our history and how we can move forward, and supplies us, the audience with a representation of how when we come together we can achieve

This character specifically resonates with the audience as many can relate to her.

The use of cinematography throughout this film helps to get the point of the film across to the audience. One of the most iconic scenes in this film features near the ending, in the background there is sound of an ongoing war which represents the war against the indigenous culture, while ‘Dave’ and ‘Gail’ are in a tent together holding hands. The camera zooms in on their hands, and the audience can see the difference between the skin colours, it shows how close they are regardless of what has happened in the past. This film represents our indigenous culture and regardless of what happens we can find good in a situation. Together the black and white community can come together and achieve more than they could ever do by themselves.

This film absolutely deserves to be recognised as it has a positive impact on both the indigenous and white community and how we can gain