Watch The Legend of Molly Johnson

The Legend of Molly Johnson is an Australian western drama that came out in 2021. Directed by and starring Leah Purcell, the film is a gripping and intense adaptation of Purcell's own 2016 play, "The Drover's Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson," which is itself inspired by Henry Lawson's classic short story "The Drover's Wife." The film provides a raw and powerful perspective on the struggles and fortitude of a woman facing the harsh realities of life in the 19th-century Australian frontier.

Set against the expansive and untamed landscape of the Australian high country, The Legend of Molly Johnson centers around the eponymous character Molly, played with compelling grit by Leah Purcell. Molly is a stoic and resilient woman, living in a remote and rugged terrain. With her husband away droving sheep, she is left alone to care for their children and fend off the dangers of the bush.

As the narrative unfolds, we witness the myriad challenges that Molly contends with daily: from the constant threats posed by wild animals and unpredictable weather, to the scarcity of resources and the lack of nearby support. Her fortitude is not just physical, but emotional, as Molly is determined to protect her children and maintain her homestead in the face of overwhelming odds.

The film delves into the complexities of Molly's character, revealing her as a figure who is simultaneously a nurturing mother, a resourceful homesteader, and a tough figure capable of confronting whatever threats come her way. The Legend of Molly Johnson highlights themes of survival, maternal love, and the resilience of the human spirit, as well as addressing the racial and gender prejudices of the time.

Several other compelling characters orbit Molly's world, including Rob Collins as Yadaka, an Aboriginal man on the run from colonial authorities, and Sam Reid, who portrays a new constable in the nearest town. Yadaka's path intersects with Molly's in a way that profoundly impacts both their fates. The character of Yadaka is both complex and intriguing; he brings with him a different perspective on Australian society, offering insight into the systemic injustices faced by Indigenous Australians of the period.

Constable Nate Clintoff, portrayed by Sam Reid, is a newcomer to the harsh Australian bush. His idealism and notions of law and justice are put to the test in this challenging landscape, and as he becomes entwined in local affairs, his character undergoes a transformative journey.

A prominent aspect of The Legend of Molly Johnson is the critique of the colonial mindset and societal norms. It touches on themes of colonialism, including the treatment of Indigenous people and the role of law in a land that is both geographically and psychologically distant from its governing bodies. Through its narrative and characters, the film shines a light on the untold stories of women and Indigenous Australians, offering a more inclusive historical perspective.

Visually, the film captures the vast and haunting beauty of the high country. Cinematography plays a pivotal role in setting the tone, with sweeping shots of the formidable landscape that underscore the isolation and peril faced by the characters. The unforgiving environment becomes a character in its own right, shaping the lives and destinies of those who strive to survive within it.

As a director, Leah Purcell brings her nuanced understanding of the source material to the screen, ensuring a faithful and yet innovative retelling of the tale that feels both authentically rooted in its historical context and relevant to contemporary audiences. She successfully weaves together action, drama, and poignant storytelling to create a film that is engaging and thought-provoking.

The Legend of Molly Johnson also excels in its sound design and musical score, which compliments the raw and atmospheric setting of the movie. The tension and emotion conveyed through the score further immerse the audience in Molly's world and heighten the impact of the film's pivotal moments.

In summary, The Legend of Molly Johnson is a powerful film that tells the story of a woman's fierce determination to protect her family and survive against all odds in the harsh Australian bush. While firmly placed within the western genre, the film stands out for its focus on the untold stories of women and Indigenous people, making it a unique and significant contribution to Australian cinema. It is a profound and visually stunning work that leaves a lasting impression on its audience, offering both entertainment and reflection on issues that remain relevant today.

The Legend of Molly Johnson is a 2022 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 60.