Synopsis: Read on IMDB
Should you watch this movie? This is not a movie for everyone given it’s pretty slow-paced. However, the physical and emotional journey is worth the watch!
In 1977, Robyn Davidson embarks on a 2700 km trek of the Australian desert, from Alice Springs till the Indian ocean accompanied by 3 camels and her dog, Diggity. Photographer Rick Smolan documents her 9-month journey for National Geographic Magazine.
There is no doubt shooting your movie in Australian landscapes will almost guarantee breathtaking cinematography. The movie is beautiful in that sense, even if what we are mostly seeing is desert, albeit desert with blue skies. You can never underestimate the power of a nice, sunny day! Most of the movie revolves around one character, so the scenery definitely becomes an important part of the story.
There are two ways you can feel about this movie: at worst, you will find it a very slow and boring documentary about the Australian outback, starring a girl with rattled hair and chapped lips. At best, you will not mind the pace, but focus on the journey itself (both physical and emotional) and be captivated by Mia Wasikowska’s perfomance as Robyn. I identify with the latter, even thogh the whole film feels pretty monotone, it was not the tedious type. It was monotone in the sense that it seems to mainly convey solitude, and instrospection, maybe even melancholy at times.
Adam Driver also stars as Rick Smolan, the somewhat oddball National Geographic photographer documenting Robyn’s journey, who begins as more of a nuisance for Robyn, but evolves into an important partner to complete the trek. My favorite has got to be the interactions between the characters of Robyn and Mr. Eddy (played by Rolley Mintuma), an Aboriginal man who accompanies her for a specific track of the journey. The relationship is great because even though short, you can see how they are transformed by each other’s company. And speaking of another important relationship? Robyn and her dog Diggity (see below!)
Bechdel Test: I’m going to let this pass on a technicality
1. It has to have at least two [named] women in it Robyn, played by Mia Wasikowska and Diggity the dog, played by the canine with one of the best names ever: Special Agent Gibbs.
2. Who talk to each other Robyn always talks to Diggity? Does Diggity answer words back? No, but there is plenty of non-verbal communication!
3. About something besides a man They talk about a lot of things other than a man or men in general.
Does it matter? Say that you don’t count the interaction between Robyn and Diggity; the movie is still about a woman’s journey, an unconventional young woman with feelings, depth, and definitely lots of strength. Having another lady to chat with would sort of defeat one purpose of her journey which was to be on her own.
Paola’s mood after watching this movie:
Photo: Source
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