Australian cinema has a simple but checkered history. From being underrated and underfunded and underrepresented for decades, New Holland finally burst on the international film scene in the early '70s thanks to hypnotic visual feasts like Walkabout and Wake in Fright.
Following this, Australian cinema glistened with surplus films, mostly horror and sex comedies.
By 1990, the golden era of Australia cinema had somewhat waned, but there were still gems occasionally popping up.
Unfortunately Weekend with Kate is not one such gem, yet it holds up on its own unique charm. A simple predictable love triangle, this light tragicomedy has merits due to its own humbleness. Is it hilarious? No. Is it erotic? Not at all. Is it enjoyable? Well, yes but only just. Were this American or even European fare, it would easily be indistinguishable from the many similar films, but where Weekend with Kate really shines is in its own Australianess. The bush , the wilderness, the great unknown is as much the star as one of the three leads. Every outdoor shot (and there are many) are enhanced by the majesty of Down Under's glory.
Is Weekend with Kate the first film to have this? No, nor is it the finest or last. But that's why it's worth watching. The audience is not watching a jealous spat between three youngsters, but a tragedy unfold in the outback.
See it and make up your own mind.
Following this, Australian cinema glistened with surplus films, mostly horror and sex comedies.
By 1990, the golden era of Australia cinema had somewhat waned, but there were still gems occasionally popping up.
Unfortunately Weekend with Kate is not one such gem, yet it holds up on its own unique charm. A simple predictable love triangle, this light tragicomedy has merits due to its own humbleness. Is it hilarious? No. Is it erotic? Not at all. Is it enjoyable? Well, yes but only just. Were this American or even European fare, it would easily be indistinguishable from the many similar films, but where Weekend with Kate really shines is in its own Australianess. The bush , the wilderness, the great unknown is as much the star as one of the three leads. Every outdoor shot (and there are many) are enhanced by the majesty of Down Under's glory.
Is Weekend with Kate the first film to have this? No, nor is it the finest or last. But that's why it's worth watching. The audience is not watching a jealous spat between three youngsters, but a tragedy unfold in the outback.
See it and make up your own mind.