Here's another chunk of Australian "culture" for my Canadian friend Chris: the 1971 drama Wake in Fright, Australia's great "lost film" because of its unavailability on VHS or DVD, as well as its absence from television broadcasts. In mid-2009, however, a thoroughly restored digital re-release was shown in Australian theatres to considerable acclaim.
“Sweat, dust and beer … there’s nothing else out here mate!” The movie lifts the lid on outback Australia, where boredom breeds obscenity, and it still packs a hell of an atmospheric punch. “What’s the matter with you people?” John the teacher hollers. “I can burn your house down, murder your wife, rape your child. But if I don’t have a drink with you – if I don’t have a flaming bloody drink with you – that’s a criminal offence! That’s the end of the bloody world!”
So grab some popcorn (or a beer), sit back, switch to full-screen (to the right of YouTube button), and enjoy, Chris! It may bring back some unwelcome memories of Meekatharra. Happy Easter!
(These full-length clips tend to suddenly "disappear" because of copyright infringement or whatever, so watch it while you can)
P.S. For some insightful commentary on the movie, click here and here.
P.P.S. For an interesting remake of the original movie into a TV mini series, click here.
