Review of Sunday Too Far Away (1975) by Joel A — 14 Apr 2015

At first this film seems like a series of shearer's yarns - the main narrative line seems pretty thin at times, but like Robert Altman's films this episodic meandering narrative works extremely well despite defying the accepted wisdom on how film narrative is supposed to work. Once upon a time in Australia, hard work was considered a virtue. A man gained respect by how well and fast he could do hard, physical work. Sure the money was good but it was not about the money. The Jack Thompson character gains the respect of other men because he has been the best shearer at every shed he has worked at for the last 10 years. But sooner or later, no matter how good you are someone will be better than you. Sooner or later, you will reach your peak and then some day a younger ambitious person will surpass you. Sooner or later you will die and before that most people get old. Self esteem is a complex and delicate thing. We should not gain it from one ability alone.

Despite a masterly ensemble performance, the great Max Cullen in a supporting role steals the show on any scene he is in.