[review] satellite boy
The opening shot of a clear night sky overflowing with stars in outback Western Australia sets the tone for this charming, feel-good film. Breathtaking visuals of a sky we never get to see in our light and smog polluted cities really make you appreciate the simplicity and serenity of it all. From gorgeous sunrises and stunning sunsets to everything in between, Catriona McKenzie’s directorial feature debut, Satellite Boy, does justice to its name.
Satellite Boy follows Pete (Cameron Wallaby), a young Aboriginal boy who lives with his elderly grandfather Jagamarra (David Gulpilil) on the site of an abandoned drive-in cinema in an outback town in far north Western Australia. When his home is purchased by a mining company and faces demolition, Pete and his wayward best mate Kalmain (Joseph Pedley) trek south to ‘the city’ to reason with the management of the mining company. En route, the boys become lost in the magnificent but inhospitable landscape of the Kimberleys, and must rely on the knowledge and skills a reluctant Pete has gained from his grandfather.
The film begs the questions whether it’s possible to straddle two cultures without compromising either. Ultimately, it’s a question of family and the choice comes down to contemporary or traditional.
A tender and touching story, Satellite Boy is simple, feel good film told through terrific acting and showcasing some of the most epic and glorious landscapes our country has to offer. While there is opportunity for more depth in the film, especially during the boys’ journey, the message is still conveyed and as such, the film retains a certain lightness suitable for the entire family.
Australian directors seem to be few and far between, let alone female Australian directors, which is why it’s so exciting to have Catriona McKenzie on the scene (pun intended). The only notable female Australian director that springs to mind is Jane Campion and it’s shame that she’s the only one.
McKenzie’s debut in Australian film does our country justice and shows off our beautiful land. Her strong belief in our country and culture shines through, as does her sheer passion and dedication for this story that was six years in the making.
After watching the film and reading up on background information, it was amazing to discover what went in to the actual making of it. Satellite Boy was the first film granted permission to film in that world heritage listed area of the Kimberleys. As such, there were quite a few rules in place to respect the land, including no motor vehicles within 2km of the Bungle Bungles, meaning all equipment had to be carried in on canvas stretchers. Classed as a ‘dry-shoot’ cast and crew also had to live and sleep in tents on the land.
Six years is a long time, but the wait was worth it knowing what went in to upholding tradition and respecting the land; McKenzie should be proud of her accomplishment. She stated “It was rewarding at the end of filming to be stopped on the streets by strangers who thanked me for showing respect to the traditional owners and the community”.
It really was a pleasure to watch a film by a female Australian director with a focus on indigenous culture, carried out with such respect. With a clear vision, passion, dedication and integrity, not to mention coming from the minority on all fronts, Satellite Boy was wonderful and I look forward to seeing what Catriona McKenzie offers up next.
In summation, we live in a beautiful country with a beautiful culture. Support our film industry and the women in it.
Satellite Boy is released in cinemas across Australia today.
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