A collection of short films based on stories by Australian writer Tim Winton.
With so many shorts jostling for attention, this is inevitably a mixed bag. But as a showcase for so much Aussie talent, there’s much to admire here.
Subsequent viewings will result in deeper understanding but The Turning is spellbinding from first look. An exquisite piece of visual art, it both celebrates and transcends its masterful source material, and reminds us of the majesty of cinema.
Hopefully, the shorts in The Turning will find life outside of this relentless package.
Adapting Winton for the screen is a worthwhile creative project, but this truncated collection doesn’t come together.
As in most portmanteau films, the tone isn't consistent but the collection includes some very fine work.
This severely truncated theatrical release leaves too many connections unmade. The full 172-minute version will be on DVD in April.
It’s a patchwork affair, with the emphasis on patchy.
General release. Check local listings for show times.