Finding Jedda (2021)

Review Team

4/5

Finding Jedda is a poignant exploration of friendship and ambition set against the backdrop of early Australian cinema. Directed by Tanith Glynn-Maloney, the film follows the journey of Betty and Rosalie, two best friends on a Northern Territory mission, as they navigate the arrival of filmmakers Ch ... Show more >> Finding Jedda is a poignant exploration of friendship and ambition set against the backdrop of early Australian cinema. Directed by Tanith Glynn-Maloney, the film follows the journey of Betty and Rosalie, two best friends on a Northern Territory mission, as they navigate the arrival of filmmakers Charles and Elsa Chauvel. The performances are heartfelt, with the chemistry between the leads capturing the innocence and complexity of their relationship. The cinematography beautifully portrays the Northern Territory, enhancing the emotional weight of the narrative. Glynn-Maloney's direction is both sensitive and insightful, allowing the characters' struggles and aspirations to resonate deeply with the audience. While the film occasionally treads familiar ground, its unique perspective on Indigenous representation in cinema makes it a worthwhile watch. Overall, Finding Jedda is an engaging film that encourages reflection on identity and the power of storytelling. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Finding Jedda attempts to tell a compelling story about two girls faced with a life-changing decision, but it sometimes feels like it bites off more than it can chew. The premise is intriguing, and the historical context is rich, but the pacing can be uneven, leaving some emotional beats feeling rus ... Show more >> Finding Jedda attempts to tell a compelling story about two girls faced with a life-changing decision, but it sometimes feels like it bites off more than it can chew. The premise is intriguing, and the historical context is rich, but the pacing can be uneven, leaving some emotional beats feeling rushed. The performances from the young leads are commendable, bringing authenticity to their roles, yet the script occasionally lacks depth, making it hard to fully invest in their journey. There are moments of brilliance, particularly in how it portrays the clash between tradition and ambition, but these moments don't always coalesce into a cohesive narrative. While Finding Jedda has its heart in the right place and shines a light on important themes, it ultimately feels like it could have benefited from a tighter narrative focus. It's an interesting watch, but perhaps not for everyone. Show less