Sweet Country

The Aboriginal Australians must endure the oppression from white settlers in an era when justice is a flimsy concept and everyone looks at it through their own glasses. The acting performance is excellent (Sam Neil and his singing!), but the views into the characters’ past or future are somewhat useless and the takes can prove quite lengthy at times, making the film slightly sticky in its pace. I’m glad this film exists because of its significant reach; nevertheless, it would gain by being a bit shorter. [KVIFF 2018] (07/03/2018)

Australia really knows how to create a bleak, gritty western, and Sweet Country is a solid example of that. There’s this lingering sense of history, tied to their convict past and the complicated relationship with the Aboriginal people, which adds depth to the film. It blends both of these themes in a way that’s intriguing, though it can feel a bit emotionally flat at times. Still, the atmosphere is undeniably captivating, making it a compelling watch. (11/26/2020)

This distinctive drama from the Australian outback gently and cleverly explores the issues of racism, culture clashes and justice. A highlight of the film is the thoroughly elaborate characters, with an unforgettable, understated performance by the non-actor Hamilton Morris. Surprisingly, Sam Neill’s character is the least developed. Sweet Country is a slow film for a viewer who likes to listen and explore, without music, whose function is taken on by atmospheric wind noise resonating through the dry desert scenery. Inserted cuts reflecting the characters’ emotional moments, or leading one to think about the storyline context, make the film different and exceptional. I got more from this film meditation than I had expected according to the majority rating on FilmBooster. (08/09/2018)