The Turning
Starring: Rose Byrne, Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving, Miranda Otto, Matt Nable, Richard Roxburgh
Directed By: Tony Ayres, Jub Clerc, Robert Connoly, Shaun Gladwell, Rhys Graham, Justin Kurzel
Reviewed by Danielle Muir

[rating: 2.5/5]

This does have the makings of an Australian classic however there is one fundamental flaw (or endearing quality if you’re a Winton fan).  This is not made for people who haven’t read the novel predecessor.  Those who go unread will see a collection of short coastal-based films that cut abruptly and jarringly move on to the next seemingly unrelated piece.  However, those who have read the book will understand that this is not the case.

The Turning is a myriad of character driven stories set in coastal Aus in various time periods.  A young boy’s affinity with his rifle is explored.  A young mother finds Christ amongst her deplorable circumstances.  Two young kids bond over spear fishing.  Each segment is given a title, and from an unread perspective there appears to be no real structure to the story.

At the halfway point this reviewer was informed that many of the adult characters feature in earlier segments as children.  However the speaking of names is quite few and far between, making it near impossible to distinguish who may have grown up to be whom – in addition to stark physical differences.  Just be warned that the film in no way gives help to those ignorant of the novel.

When looked at from an individual perspective, each story tidbit isn’t really strong in its own right.  Some are certainly more entertaining than others – there’s a lovely scene featuring Cate Blanchett and Richard Roxborough   stirring hijinks with the latter’s mother on Christmas Day, and Rose Byrne puts on a brilliant turn as a young mother dreaming of a better life  than her everyday squalor.  But, again from an outsiders perspective, each segment seems to cut out abruptly and awkwardly, with no real feeling of resolution.  With so many different directors the style varies with each piece which can be jarring – some of the segments are extremely odd, some are confusing and granted, some are beautiful.

If you haven’t read the book I’d honestly say there’s not much point in watching this film as you won’t receive what’s intended – plus 3 hours is a big commitment to view something you’re completely missing the point of.