Movie Review: The Rabbit-proof Fence
The Stolen Generation has become discussion in the media and politics, however many white Australians we only know the factual events. “Rabbit-Proof Fence”, an independent film directed by Philip Noyce, tugs on the audience's heartstrings providing insight to the traumatic emotional experience the Stolen Generation faced. Based on a non-fiction memoir, Follow The Rabbit-Proof Fence, conveys the themes of pain and suffering caused by white colonialism.
The “Rabbit-Proof Fence” is set in Jigalong, Western Australia 1500km North East of Perth, in 1931. The protagonist, Molly (Everlyn Sampi) lives with her sister Daisy (Tianna Sansbury), her cousin Gracie (Laura Monaghan) and their mothers. The audience is introduced to A.O Neville (Kenneth Branagh) who is the chief “protector” of the Aborigines, however, his title is ironic as it contradicts his actions. A.O Neville removes Molly, Daisy and Gracie from their family relocating them to the Moore River Settlement to transition into the white culture which is on the boundary of the Rabbit-Proof Fence. The “Rabbit-Proof Fence” links Molly and her family’s camp home so they embark on an arduous spiritual adventure to return home and possibly reunite with their family which was mercilessly torn apart.
The film enables the audience to see through the eyes of Aboriginals and sympathise with them as the effects of assimilation were cruel and inhumane. This is conveyed through the stealing children scene which is the films biggest strength. The audience can see and hear the anguish, pain and trauma the separation of a family caused. The dialogue in this scene is extremely painful and strikes the audience's heart through the use of sharp, high pitch and intense wailing from the distressed mothers and their traumatised children. The three young girls played an outstanding role conveying the intense grief they were facing. The close-up shots enabled the audience to see the tears and facial expressions of the young girls capturing the sorrow of separation. Several mid-shots are used showing the struggle as the children are forcibly ripped from their mother’s arms which establishes sombre mood. This scene is highly successful by creating a tone of agony, torment and embarrassment as Australian viewers reflect on their past.
Philip Noyce has done an exceptional job to reveal the theme of colonial racism by exposing the disgraceful behaviour Aboriginal children faced. This is conveyed well through the scene where Mr Neville decided the fate of Aboriginal children based on the colour of their skin. The scene is predominately white with very harsh and clinical colour which is highly symbolic; from the church to the nuns and even the sand illustrating the full power of European colonialism. Notably, the dirt is not true red Australian dirt but instead a highly contrasting white sand which is incandescent and provides a lack of comfort. The nuns are also dressed in pristine bright white gowns which demonstrates the absolute control white settlers had on Aboriginals. The colour white is usually associated with goodness and cleanliness which suggests they are cleaning the natives of their 'filth' and instilling superiority. The director’s subject shots provide a very personal experience by framing Molly’s perspective. The slow shaking movements and intakes of breath reveal Molly’s fear of Mr Neville. Low camera angles emphasise his size and intimidating dominance which indicated the full power he maintained over Aboriginals. As a nation, we should be embarrassed as for over seventy years we allowed this unjust, abhorrent racial behaviour to exist.
The film was beautifully structured by tackling the difficult period and topic of colonialism fairly resending and making the audience feel sympathetic for Aboriginals. Throughout the film, we go on an emotional journey to escape repressive life and understand the trauma and pain they experienced along the way. The film sends a powerful message and was very successful enabling the audience to emotionally attach and realise the destruction caused.
The film is rated PG and would be advised for all audiences above the age of 13. It is an important film for all Australians to watch indigenous or non-indigenous as it enables the audience to understand Australia’s past. It is a historical fiction although, it is based on real events. The film discusses important themes like colonialism and racism.
