In My Father’s Country by Tom Murray

A 7-year-old boy prepares for his coming of age ritual in an Aboriginal community. Simultaneously, we witness the people’s struggle with the strict rules of the Australian government, and modernity. Both boy and community have to compromise at some point, protecting some characteristics and letting others go. In My Father’s Country explores the daily life of the Dhuruputjis, the brilliant colours and dynamic shooting style making us feel like part of it.

Tom Murray does not have a political position or statement, instead focusing on the anthropological aspects. We see relationships in different dimensions: Parents- children, grandparents-children, men-women, authority-people, and even on a human-animal level. Unfortunately, Murray can’t help communicating with the people himself and perhaps conducts them to get what is needed for the documentary.

The Dhuruputjis’ form of resistance in a modern system is to stick to their culture. Although we see them with ’modern’ clothing, speaking English and using computers, they still have a unique language, traditions and connection to nature. Although the older generation seems to be accepting defeat, they pass their knowledge on in order to maintain their identity with dignity, even if they have to leave their hometown.

Selma Sevkli