The Western, The Legend of Molly Johnson, is directed by actress Leah Purcell and stars a pregnant mother from the developing Australian town of Everton. Molly is a stoic woman. She’s good with guns and happy on the dangerous hills without her husband. However, her Molly’s isolation is disturbed when an Aboriginal man comes across her doorstep.
A man, Yataka (Rob Collins), takes refuge in her house. He is a fugitive and wants murder. However, despite Molly’s initial attention, she has a lot to discuss with her guests, who are proud of his background and skin color. Roberts), teaches him how to use a spear, and tells him tales of his past circus. A tenuous bond forms between the trio, and the connection deepens when secrets of Molly’s past are revealed, revealing that the taciturn host and her stowaway share striking similarities. increase.
“The Legend of Molly Johnson” is a reconstruction of the Australian frontier, and Purcell’s direction isn’t subtle. Here law enforcement is the violent vandal, and Aboriginal people risk their lives to protect their lives, their families and their land. The music builds up as Molly and Yadaka slowly warm up to each other. The down-to-earth performances by Purcell and Collins stand out in contrast to the actors cast as townsfolk reciting lines in wooden British accents. It’s a serious film, shining with pride in its Aboriginal resilience. But the impression it leaves is didactic, an allegory of saints and demons meandering to forget the conclusion.
The Legend of Molly Johnson
Unrated. Running time: 1 hour 49 minutes.Available for rent or purchase at the theater apple tv, google play and other streaming platforms and pay-TV operators.