At this point we are all very aware of Peter Weir and some of his earlier works. In this class alone we have watched 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' and 'Gallipoli'; two films that encapsulate almost all of the traditionally Australian themes we have seen, studied and written numerous papers about. However, unknown to many, Weir has directed and contributed enough to Australian cinema that on June 14th, 1982 he was awarded the 'Member of the Order of Australia' medal as a recognition for his achievements and celebration of Australian culture.
Interestingly enough, Weir directed his first feature film in 1974 - less than a year b
efore he released his groundbreaking feature 'Picnic at Hanging Rock'. This first film was called 'The Cars that ate Paris' - taking place not in Paris, France but rather a fictional, middle of nowhere small town called Paris. While unfortunately the film has had little staying power in history, it does act as a sort of prelude/inspiration both to the 'Mad Max' saga - through the concept, use of vehicles, violence and portrayal of the outback; and as the inspiration and celebration of the Australian quirkiness found in films like 'Muriel's Wedding' and again in 'Mad Max'.The following years he directed several other landmark Australian films:
- Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)
- The Last Wave (1977)
- Gallipoli (1981)
- The Year of Living Dangerously (1982)
So my question is; after contributing so much and being internationally recognized as a pioneer of Austrian Cinema, why did he all of a sudden decide to turn his back and no longer celebrate the land that created both him and his renowned career?
Review of 'The Cars that ate Paris'
The Order of Australia Medal
1 comment:
To some extent, Master and Commander marks a return to his Australian roots...
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