Backbencher

TEN CANOES

This film was quite different than the others and gave great insight into the tribal ways of Abriginal life before the English settlers came to Australia. This film is a narrated for a story that has happened and one that is happening. It is sort of confusing at first, but you get used to it with the aid of color vs. black and white picture.

The film tells a story of patience and tribal law concerning wives and marriage. A young man wants another's youngest wife, and things get a little confusing for the women and men, until one disappears. No one is really quite sure what happens, and the truth is found out too late. That is the basic plot outline of the film.

You see practical building of canoes. The title of the film, in my opinion, doesn't really relate to the story. It does show a way of life and sustainability for the people. You see how each person lives and what their vices are, including Birinbirin, who goes buck wild for honey.

I did like this because out of all the others I've viewed, this one had Aboriginals that were not effected by white men. I'm glad you get to see that because, although it's a movie, you get a great glimpse into their lives. One thing that surprised me was their language and word choice. I guess I took for granted that they wouldn't swear and joke but I was way off. It was really quite funny to read what they were actually saying.

All in all, this was another good movie that showed great things about the Aboriginals. Check this one out for a good view of their lifestyle. Also, this movie has no clothes in it, so get ready for some skin.