Emerald City (1988)

Emerald City Poster

A comedy of life's temptations - lust, greed and power. The city in question is Sydney and the colour green signifies greed and envy in David Williamsons amusing satire on its film and publishing industries. The story centers around the Rogers family, loosely modelled on Williamson's own.

Introduction
"Emerald City", directed by Michael Jenkins, is a 1988 Australian film adjusted from the play of the same name by David Williamson. The story focuses around the trials and tribulations of a group of characters involved in the Australian movie and television markets. Set versus the backdrop of Sydney, often referred to as the "Emerald City" due to its commercial values, the film is a satire on the superficiality, aspiration, and relationships on the planet of show service.

Plot Overview
The story follows Colin Rogers (played by John Hargreaves), a renowned film writer who transfers from Melbourne to Sydney with his spouse Kate (played by Robyn Nevin) and their kids, in search of better chances and to be at the center of the growing Australian film market. Colin is tempted by the guarantee of success and wealth, but soon discovers himself knotted in the complex web of the market's ego-driven culture.

In Sydney, Colin meets Mike McCord (played by Chris Haywood), a slick and unscrupulous movie producer who is more concerned with making lucrative motion pictures rather than creative ones. Kate, on the other hand, disdains Sydney's fancy way of life and discovers it difficult to assimilate. She has a hard time to find meaningful relationships and is concerned about the impact of the materialistic environment on her household.

Colin gets involved with the production of a film which Mike believes will be a hit due to its industrial elements. As the story unfolds, Colin is confronted with artistic compromises. He consults with Elaine Ross (played by Nicole Kidman), an enthusiastic up-and-coming starlet, and starts an affair with her. Elaine signifies the fresh skill uncorrupted, yet likewise slowly succumbing to the allure and risks of the market. Through Colin's eyes, the audience is exposed to the dichotomy of the film market's appeal and its often-hollow core.

Themes and Satire
"Emerald City" delves into several styles around art versus commercialism, stability, and the cost of popularity. The film critiques the superficial nature of program service and the compromise on creative worths lots of go through in pursuit of success and acknowledgment. The city of Sydney functions as a metaphor for this stunning yet misleading world.

The satire in "Emerald City" is sharp, with David Williamson's script satirizing the market's pretentiousness. From the vapid discussion of industry insiders to the scramble for investment in questionable film jobs, the movie script highlights the absurdity and the fickleness of the world Colin and his acquaintances browse.

Character Development and Performances
John Hargreaves' representation of Colin offers a nuanced take a look at an enthusiastic yet ethically conflicted individual. It's a tale of internal battle, in between one's own creative integrity and the seduction of popularity and fortune. Robyn Nevin's performance as Kate uses a grounded contrast to the mad energy of the remainder of the characters, representing the voice of reason and credibility in the middle of the turmoil.

Chris Haywood's Mike McCord embodies the manipulative side of the industry, with Haywood's efficiency bringing to life the character's charm and sleaziness in equal procedure. Nicole Kidman, in an early role, shows pledge as Elaine, delivering a layered character caught between innocence and opportunism.

Conclusion
"Emerald City" is an engaging satire of the Australian show business in the 1980s. The movie uses a critical examination of the options individuals make when confronted with the attraction of fame and success, all framed versus the glittering background of Sydney's movie circles. With strong efficiencies and a piercing script, "Emerald City" stands as a significant piece of Australian cinema, exploring the timeless themes of aspiration and integrity within the volatile world of program service.

Top Cast

  • Nicole Kidman (small)
    Nicole Kidman
    Helen McCord
  • John Hargreaves (small)
    John Hargreaves
    Colin Rogers
  • Chris Haywood (small)
    Chris Haywood
    Mike McCord
  • Robyn Nevin (small)
    Robyn Nevin
    Kate Rogers
  • Ruth Cracknell (small)
    Ruth Cracknell
    Elaine Ross
  • Dennis Miller (small)
    Dennis Miller
    Malcolm Bennett
  • Nicholas Hammond (small)
    Nicholas Hammond
    Ian Wall
  • Ella Scott
    Penny Rogers
  • Haydon Samuels
    Sam Rogers
  • Michelle Torres
    Kath Mitchell
  • Bruce Venables
    Limousine Driver