| Reference Type |
The Bulletin
journal
|
| Title |
Fast-Moving Study In Frustration |
| Author(s) | Sandra Hall |
| Page Number |
86 |
| Comments |
Sandra Hall writes a very in-depth and insightful commentary on "Hard Knocks" covering all angles in great length. She offers a succint account of the film itself and provides her own critical response analysing specific scenes in the film, charcters, structure, themes and social reponses to McLenans first feature film. |
| Synopsis |
Hall's initial and continuing point relates to the film's motivation: as a social statement! Such a motivation on behalf of McLennan and Boner (the films Writers / Directors) creates a solid and realist look at life as a 'struggling' young Australian in the contemporary context.
The unorthodox structure of the film (it's re-arrangement of chronological events) is, according to Hall, a dramatic risk 'only enjoyed by people who have the luxury of knowing the subject as well as they ought to.' It does not thwart the film's character development, as many other responses to the film commonly suggest.
Hall talks about the 'true life' inspiration for the script as lending the film a realist edge and giving the central protagonist, 'Samantha' (Mann) a true depth and a realist complexity. The actors performances are repeatedly praised by Hall throughout the article.
Hall moves on to detail the film's appeal and success at the AFI awards and with a 'young Australian audience.' She also talks about the portreyal of adults as 'villains' and as 'persecutors of the young.'A theme she notes, common to many Australian films dealing with youth.
Finally, Hall concludes her commontary of "Hard Knocks" by asserting what she believes to be the central message and underlying theme of the film: 'Society is to Blame' for the plight and perpetuation of the delinquent population! |
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