The Right Hand Man (1987)

The Right Hand Man Poster

A stagecoach driver goes to work for a dying, one-armed aristocrat in 1860s Australia.

Film Overview
"The Right Hand Man" is an Australian drama film directed by Di Drew and launched in 1987. The movie script was written by Tony Morphett and Helen Hodgman, based upon Hodgman's book of the same name. The movie is embeded in the mid-19th century and stars Rupert Everett, Hugo Weaving and Arthur Dignam in the leading functions.

Plot Summary
The story focuses on the life of a boy called Lord Harry Ironminster (Rupert Everett). Lord Harry is abundant and attractive, however after a destructive carriage mishap, he ends up being paralysed from the waist down. His life takes a considerably dark and depressive turn, as he thinks that his staying life will just be full of despair and incapability.

Throughout this tumultuous period, he meets a rough-around-the-edges, however kind-hearted coachman, named Jeremy Dodd (Hugo Weaving). Jeremy works for Lord Harry's rich dad and struggles with his own past. Regardless of their class differences and initial contempt for one another, they suddenly become close friends.

Relationship Development
The friendship between Harry and Jeremy forms the heart of the film. Jeremy, with no formal medical background, takes it upon himself to assist rehabilitate Harry, both physically and psychologically. In the beginning, Harry withstands Jeremy's efforts, but eventually recognises Jeremy's real care and intention. Through this relationship, they offer each other a restored sense of purpose and gradually the desolate life of Lord Harry takes a rear seat.

Love Triangle
The film presents a twist with the look of a beautiful widow, Lady Alice Ferguson (Catherine McClements). Both Harry and Jeremy begin developing sensations for her, leading to a complex love triangle. Despite the romantic complications, the relationship in between Harry and Jeremy stays undeterred. Woman Ferguson is supportive to Harry's condition, but her reciprocation towards the sensation of both men includes depth to the plot.

The Climax
The climax shows up when Harry, thanks to Jeremy's meticulous care, pushes himself to conquer his paralysis and gains enough strength to stand. This offers him a brand-new lease of life and a fresh perspective towards his previously 'helpless' condition.

Final Thoughts
"The Right Hand Man" is a heartfelt tale of relationship, love, resilience, and redemption. In spite of its period setting, the film's themes and character issues are universal and timeless. Both Everett and Weaving provide engaging efficiencies, with their characters' development main to the story. This film may be considered as a testimony to the human spirit's ability to get rid of misfortune, making it an inspiring watch. Its memorable storytelling and flawless performances have actually contributed to the movie's strong existence in Australian movie theater to this day.

Top Cast

  • Rupert Everett (small)
    Rupert Everett
    Lord Harry Ironminster
  • Hugo Weaving (small)
    Hugo Weaving
    Ned Devine
  • Catherine McClements (small)
    Catherine McClements
    Sarah Redbridge
  • Arthur Dignam (small)
    Arthur Dignam
    Dr. Redbridge
  • Jennifer Claire
    Lady Ironminster
  • Ralph Cotterill
    Sam
  • Adam Cockburn
    Violet Head
  • Tim Elliott
    Lord Ironminster
  • Jack Allen
    Shopkeeper
  • John Spicer
    Publican
  • Brian Scrymgeour
    Yard Boss