I am proudly the first to review this little gem. Filmed in 2018/19 but delayed due to the obvious, this Australian feature I came to view as part of the AACTA screening and judging process for the 2022 awards. I wouldn't have known it was filmed three years ago and its themes are quite timeless.
All I really want to say about 'Smoke Between Trees' is that unfolds delicately but with drama, and humour as it explores subjects as resonant as prejudice, race, family, grief and loss, love, and belonging. It carefully weaves its concerns through the journey of Tiriel Mora's character and he gives a career best performance.
Known for his comedic work on 'Frontline' and 'The Castle', Tiriel Mora is transformed during this movie and whilst he displayed his character's flawed humanity, he also depicted what it is to move through adversity and emerge altered. It is a really illuminating and soulful piece of filmmaking and shot in the picturesque Blue Mountains of New South Wales.
I was intrigued by the basic description of this movie but it has so many moving parts and I mean that structurally as well as emotionally. I hope plenty of other folks seek it out.
