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American Westerns often tell stories about the tough men who explored the frontiers, who worked the land, and who fought off enemies. But the Australian Western-style drama The Legend of Molly Johnson tells the story not of the men of the outback but of a determined wife and mother fighting for her children.
The Legend of Molly Johnson travels to the Australian outback, where pregnant Molly (Leah Purcell) is caring for her children alone while her husband is away with their sheep. After Molly sends her children to stay in town while she prepares for the birth of her fifth child, a native man named Yadaka (Rob Collins) shows up and offers to help with chores in return for a few nights’ lodging. Slowly, the two create a somewhat comfortable arrangement. But when things go wrong in town for the newly-appointed sheriff (Sam Reid), it creates problems for Yadaka and Molly, too.
These characters definitely live in a hostile environment. Molly and her children are constantly on guard against wild animals and violent men. Yadaka faces prejudice and hatred from those who see him as worthless. The idealistic new sheriff suddenly finds himself trying to bring law and order to unruly people in a wild frontier town. And all of those challenges create a whole lot of tension and drama.
Writer/director Leah Purcell is absolutely captivating in her starring role as the tough and tenacious Molly. Born and raised in the mountains, this character is every bit as robust and resilient as the men who work the land and care for the animals. She’s been through so much, and she’s lived through so much pain and heartbreak. She knows enough to approach strangers with caution (and a loaded weapon), but she also treats people with kindness. And, most of all, she’s a loving mother who will do anything to protect her children.
Her story, too, is compelling—offering a different perspective on the typical frontier drama. And as she connects with this native man who’s seen his own share of pain and suffering, the film comes together in a way that’s dark and dramatic but powerful.
Like the typical American Western, The Legend of Molly Johnson explores the lives of tough characters in an even tougher environment. But this strong and resilient main character—and those around her, too—offer a new and memorable take on the classic story of the challenges of life on the frontier.
Find The Legend of Molly Johnson in select theaters or on demand beginning on August 19, 2022.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
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