I could not watch Curtin when it aired on ABC TV a few weeks back, so recorded it onto DVD; and watched it last night. As an Australian political history buff, a WWII watcher, member of the ALP and fan of William McInnis, I was looking forward to it. To say I was disappointed is an understatement.
I now understand that it was originally intended to be a six hour mini-series in four arts, cut to 90 minutes by the ABC. Its original format would not only have truly told the Curtin story, but would have made clear some things that must of confused people if they were not fully aware of the history.
For example, the following were never explained.
Why the ALP was desperate to unseat Menzies from office (because he agreed with Churchill that the Nazis must be defeated before worrying about Australa).
Why some members of Curtin's Cabinet were hostile (because of the disastrous split within the ALP only 10 years previously).
It could also have concentrated on the years in opposition, his longer term health and the relationship built with the USA during the war, that continues today.
Having said that, the portrayal of the people and the times was excellent.
Just would have liked the full story, that's all.
