Review of Walkabout (1971) by Carl R — 01 Sep 2009
Walkabout brought about Nic Roeg's transition from cinematographer to director and is just one of many reasons why I feel Roeg is the best film-maker to have come out of Britain to date.
A moving,strikingly beautifull,forgotten classic thats as relevant today as it was in 1971 on its initial release.Roegs directorial debut is a timeless tale of survival,friendship,resourcefullness and sexual awareness.
The film followers two siblings.One a 16 year old girl (played by the super stunning,british actress,Jenny Agutter) and the other her 6 year old brother (played by Nic Roegs real-life son,Lucien John) who after witnessing their fathers suicide on a family picnic find themselves lost and alone amungst the harsh, primate landscape of the Australian outback.There,after an arduous journey across miles of sandy plains to try to return to civilisation,they meet a young Aborigine boy,who becomes their guide.
Through some gorgeous photographer,Nic Roeg shows us a rare,attractive vision of a natural world thats largely un-disturbed by man.
For two of the three characters,the Aborigine and the girl,it's more than just a journey to return home,its a journey that will culminate in them reaching childhoods end.
Walkabout is unlike anything ever seen on film.Poetic and captivating,your left with a completely new way of seeing the world.
As important today as it was almost 40 years ago,Walkabout is an exceptional film from an exceptional auteur.A one of a kind must-see.
This review of Walkabout (1971) was written by Carl R on 01 Sep 2009.
Walkabout has generally received very positive reviews.
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