This week I have been focusing on Indigenous cinema as it ties in well with my review topic being Bran Nue Dae. I watched Ten Canoes, Samson and Delilah, Storm Boy and Rabbit Proof Fence. Unfortunately not one of these films was joyful. Despite all of them being beautifully made, especially from a cinematographic point of view, they were depressing and saddening films. This is not necessarily a bad thing but it does raise many questions about Indigenous cinema and perhaps why it can be overlooked by Australians. Why is it that suffering is all that is being focused on in Indigenous cinema? When I compare these films with Bran Nue Dae, the thing that stands out the most is the joy! The film is happy, simple and colorful, these other films can be informing and beautiful, and there are some happy moments, but there is a serious lack of happiness in Indigenous cinema. The Indigenous population holds many Australian icons including Ernie Dingo and Deborah Mailman. Why is it that as talented as they are, they are being forced into such depressing roles?
I actually find it very frustrating. I feel absolutely guilty and sad after watching most of these films.
As the late Justine Saunders said, "I am sick of being raped over and over and over again in these films."
