Zehn Kanus, 150 Speere und 3 Frauen (Ten Canoes)
Australia 2006

Opening 9 Aug 2007

Directed by: Rolf de Heer
Writing credits: Rolf de Heer
Principal actors: Crusoe Kurddal, Jamie Gulpilil, Richard Birrinbirrin, Peter Djigirr, Peter Minygululu

This Australian film stars indigenous amateur actors who all looked under-nourished. They meet in the forest to cut bark and make canoes. While the men work, the chief tells his nephew the story of a man who desired his brother’s wife and the ensuing tragedy. The film is in English and Maoi dialect, both in black and white and color, and vividly depicts a superstitious native people who have a clear understanding of human nature. They believe that a stranger controls a certain magic to steal souls, that shaking a bone will prevent such actions, and that one should “never trust a man with a small prick” (which is easy enough to judge since they wear little clothing). Their language is vivid and sensible, for example “before I was born” translates to “when I was still a fish in a water hole” and “he decided to…” translates to “his mind wandered and his body followed.” If you are looking for something different and are the least bit interested in Australia, native people or folklore, then this film is well worth your time. (Becky Tan)