“★★★★ – With this stunningly photographed western, Purcell has given her life” – EyeForFilm
“An exceptionally compelling outback western” – Variety
Leah Purcell’s passion project – she directs and stars in this film adaptation of her own award winning stage play and novel, based on Henry Lawson’s 1892 short story – tells the story of Molly Johnson, a fearsomely independent bushwoman.
Heavily pregnant and with four children already to feed, Molly Johnson is alone on her homestead. Her husband is a sheep drover who spends months at a time away from home, leaving Molly to defend, care for and nourish their family. Despite her prowess as a fierce mother, woman and protector, Molly knows that to those in charge, she is second best to any man in their eyes.
The arrival of escaped convict Yadaka presents a new challenge for Molly, as they learn to trust each other in the hostile environment created for women and aboriginal people, Yadaka reveals knowledge of her lineage that forces her to confront her cultural identity.
Purcell reimagines a classic Australian story through an indigenous, feminist lens, using her own experiences to deliver a brilliant, truthful performance.
Dir: Leah Purcell
Cast: Leah Purcell, Sam Reid, Rob Collins, Jessica De Gouw
Australia 2021, 109mins