Review of The Proposition (2005) by Joel T — 31 May 2011

Cinema is an amalgamation of various art forms - acting, music, writing, cinematography to name a few. A director's job is to combine everything according his particular vision to create an overall effect. When each of those artists/technicians involved gets it right and the director is able to channelize it towards its intended purpose, the result would probably look like The Proposition. The film takes us to 19th century rural Australia and provides us with a view of a chaotic,violent, brutal and dark world where it is a struggle to hold on to some basic element of humanity. It is a landmark film in Australian cinema and an instant classic.

John Hurt is absolutely unforgettable in one of the most powerful cameos in cinema, but performances from Ray Winstone and Guy Pearce are first rate too.

This is an experience not to be missed. There is this scene early in the film when Ray Winstone character lays down the proposition to Guy Pearce's character. It is in voiceover while we are presented a view of rural Australia in all its brutal and ruthless glory.

"I wish to present you with a proposition. I know where Arthur Burns is. It is a God-forsaken place. The blacks won't go there, not the tracks; not even wild men. I suppose, in time, the bounty hunters will get him. But I have other plans, I aim to bring him down - I aim to show that he's a man like any other. I aim to hurt him. And what will most hurt him? Well I thought long and hard about that, and I've realized Mr. Burns, that I must become more inventive in my methods. But those be my words listen to me now, *don't* say a word. Now suppose I told there was a way to save your little brother Mikey from the noose. Suppose I gave you a horse, and a gun. Suppose Mr. Burns, I was to give you and your young brother Mikey here a pardon. Suppose I said that I could give you a chance to expunge the guilt, beneath which you so clearly labor. Suppose I gave you 'til Christmas. Now, suppose you tell me what it is I want from you. ".

Its one of those powerful moments only cinema can create.