This week:
Mustang
More HotDocs

It's been a low-key film time for me with the wonderful Mustang being the stand out. Be aware that HotDocs is still running and I've caught up with one more, the Swedish film The Sex Temple, which is a great segue into the forthcoming Scandinavian Film Festival - stay tuned for that one, starting next week.

Mustang
Director:  Deniz Gamze Erguven
Length: 94 mins

© Madman - five oppressed sisters in Turkey

A powerful film from Turkey, Mustang introduces five sisters, full of life, full of typically schoolgirlish vitality. But when they are seen cavorting at the beach with (shock-horror!) boys, their uncle and grandmother (with whom they live) crack down like a ton of bricks, making the girls virtual prisoners within the home.  They are forced to learn domestic skills in preparation for early marriage, and their rebellion and high-spirits are gradually worn down. Only the youngest, Lale, seems to have enough rebellious spirit to attempt to find a solution. This is a wonderfully made film, understated but powerfully dealing with seriously important issues for the state of women in today's world.  

4.5 - Highly recommended!

For my full review:
http://www.cinephilia.net.au/show_review.php?movieid=6041

HotDocs at Palace  - continuing
Running until July 3

Yet another I've managed to cram in:

The Sex Temple:  Swedish drag artist Robin teams up with straight Christian and together they set up a swingers club, teamed with queer burlesque shows.  Everyone seems to be getting along just fine until the local neighbours arc up, objecting to potential "depravity". This is an interesting look at homophobia, sexual taboos, and tolerance.

HotDocs: 4.5 - Wholeheartedly recommended!

To view the full program go to:

http://www.palacecinemas.com.au/_img/custom/enews/Hotdocswebprogram.pdf