The Home Song Stories

It's almost a shock to see 'Script Editor' amongst the closing credits, because at least half of this pleasant, rather humourless film is a series of stock situations which have already been more economically and interestingly explored in other films about selfish mothers. It's tough for an audience to maintain their interest in a central character who cares only about herself, but two thrids of the way through this ghastly woman's journey, the main focus switches to her children, and there are scenes of poignant, painful truth which have undeniable clout. The script and direction tend to self-importance, but the cast (especially Steven Vidler) is excellent, but the costume design, as in so many period Australian films, is superficial and self-conscious.