David Stratton: A Cinematic Life (2017)

David Stratton: A Cinematic Life Poster

A compelling personal journey with David Stratton, as he relates the fascinating development of our cinema history. David guides us from his boyhood cinema experience of Australia in England, where he saw the first images of this strange and exotic landscape via the medium of film, to his migration to Australia as a ‘ten pound pom’ in 1963 and onto his present day reflections on the iconic themes that run through our cinematic legacy. All of this reflects a passionate engagement in a uniquely Australian medium. Parallel and at the heart of the series is the story of an industry whose growing pains David has witnessed over a lifetime. Alongside David, the protagonists of this history are the giants of Australian cinema – both behind the camera and in front of it.

Introduction
"David Stratton: A Cinematic Life" is an informative 2017 documentary that checks out the life and career of well-regarded film critic, David Stratton. Dropping the drapes on a remarkable career covering over half a century, the movie is directed by Sally Aitken and is filled with filmmaking tale and discovery of Australian movie theater through David's eyes. It is a fascinating tribute to the Australian film industry and an informing homage to Stratton as a key figure in the cultivation and promo of the nation's cinematic landscape.

Summary
The movie takes us on a journey of Australia's cinematic history, from David Stratton's place as a young movie enthusiast growing in England who later on moved to Australia and developed a deep connection with Australian movie theater. Utilizing a blend of interviews, film excerpts, and talks, the movie paints a textured picture of Stratton's fiery enthusiasm for movie theater, which led him to champion Australian filmmaking and end up being a beloved movie critic.

The Impact of Stratton's Work
The documentary showcases how Stratton's work has been instrumental in promoting Australian movies both in your area and globally. It highlights his role as director of the Sydney Film Festival for almost two decades, his synergistic relationship with co-host Margaret Pomeranz on the SBS reveals 'The Movie Show' and later 'At The Movies' for ABC. These platforms allowed him to share his love for films and fascination with the Australian cinematic market, influencing audiences and shaping viewpoints about movie theater.

David Stratton's Personal Life and Professional Journey
"David Stratton: A Cinematic Life" also exposes Stratton's personal life, his youth fascination with movie theater, the estrangement from his father due to his profession choice, and his ultimate migration to Australia. David provides bits of his early life, assessing how the magical allure of movie theater mesmerized him at a young age. His journey to Australia in the 1960s marks the development of Stratton's expert journey, where he delighted in the freshness and raw realism of local storytellers.

A Glimpse into Australian Cinema
Through Stratton's eyes, the audience gets an extensive look at Australian movie theater. The film cleverly incorporates renowned scenes from numerous Australian movies, assisting to stitch together a cohesive narrative about Australia's cinematic advancement and casting a brand-new light on the nation's contribution to the film market. Stratton's insights into the films he discusses are extensive and offer a fresh point of view on Australia's societal modifications.

Conclusion
"David Stratton: A Cinematic Life" is more than a homage to the male himself; it speaks volumes about his love for film, his passion for Australian cinema, and his influence on the market. The documentary is beautifully crafted with an abundant combination of amusing anecdotes, insightful commentary, and emotional disclosures. It also serves as an exploration of Australia's cultural identity as represented through movie. David Stratton's enthusiasm and devotion for cinema come full circle in this documentary, catching a lifetime of cinematic fascination, making it a must-watch for any movie lover.

Top Cast

  • David Stratton (small)
    David Stratton
    Self
  • Dr George Miller
    Self
  • Nicole Kidman (small)
    Nicole Kidman
    Self
  • Russell Crowe (small)
    Russell Crowe
    Self
  • Anne-Louise Lambert (small)
    Anne-Louise Lambert
    Self
  • Margaret Pomeranz (small)
    Margaret Pomeranz
    Self
  • Geoffrey Wright (small)
    Geoffrey Wright
    Self
  • Michael Caton (small)
    Michael Caton
    Self
  • Jacki Weaver (small)
    Jacki Weaver
    Self
  • Todd McCarthy (small)
    Todd McCarthy
    Self
  • Jack Thompson (small)
    Jack Thompson
    Self