Somersault

I don't intend to only be writing about films lately. There just happens to be a lot of powerful movies that I have watched recently that I have so many thoughts about! So I shall continue commenting on them...

Although released in 2004, it wasn't until this week been that I finally had the chance to view Cate Shortland's film Somersault. I didn't have a clue what to expect with this movie, I just knew that it was Aussie, it starred Abbie Cornish, and that Decoder Ring made the soundtrack for the film. In fact, I purchased the soundtrack so long ago, I've been intrigued to see the imagery that goes with what I'd recognised as somewhat whimsical music.

Somersault is barely whimsical. Aside from the scenery and cinematography you experience via Heidi's walks and her drive home, the movie proves to be more of an occer, sex-centred, smack in the face. But not in a bad way.

It speaks about adolescence and egocentricism; the choices you make at this time in your life, and amongst all of this; an exploration of sexuality.

Though seriously engaging, it wasn't until the following day that I thought, 'shit, I love this film'. Well, probably not just like that, but you get my meaning.

From my own personal reading of the film: I loved the inclusion of the boy with Aspergers Syndrome. Heidi originally doesn't know what this "disability" is, and seems to be very contemplative about it once it is explained to her. I like to think that she finally understands the consequences of her actions and how they effect others (how she hurts people) when meditating on this. My reading, of course, would differ to others who have seen the film.

And then there's the soundtrack I mentioned... Just amazing. I forgot how much I love Decoder Ring.

Somersault just goes to show, Australia's got talent.