Leah Purcell's dedication is unmatched in telling the story of "The Drover's Wife". Writing, adapting, directing, and starring in this tale, she bridges personal reflection with the all too common themes of colonialism, oppression, along with the unsurpassed love in parental sacrifice. Typically the movies presented in this genre are filled with the same a list actors, a predictable plot, and unmet expectations. This film is beautifully shot, with scenes of the landscape that can only be described as breathtaking. Purcell is brilliant as the tough as nails Molly Johnson, and one could easily see her as a frontiers woman driving cattle, living off the land. Our female ancestors had stories that were never shared. Stories of unmet steel and sturdiness, existing in times that were unforgiving for women, especially minorities and indigenous peoples. This film gives space for some of those stories that will never be told, luckily it is in good hands.
Review of The Legend of Molly Johnson
