It is not often that I would be embarrassed by telling of a film that I absolutely love.
My embarrassment comes from the juxtaposition of my fortunate life against two powerful themes in this masterful short film, based on the true story found in the book, "Sleeping Under The Bridge" by Rev Dr Mel Baker.
She tells a brave story of overcoming an abusive childhood where accepting homelessness allows recovery and ultimately a hopeful life. The film version relies heavily on visual impact to compact what often takes an hour or two to relate into minutes of compelling drama. The evocative sound track is both haunting and beautiful, allowing the film to go largely wordless apart from the song lyrics.
I knew of lead actor Quinn as a musician and was quite startled by her debut performance as Mel. Clearly, she is someone to watch in further roles.
Director Rhoyce Nova runs a tight ship to extract such a powerful artwork in 11 minutes of painful pleasure. The author, Mel Baker, is on hand producing the film and also sings with Quinn.
The pain of forced homelessness is why I am embarrassed. I lent my house for the opening scenes. The impact of homelessness makes me guilty that many of my fellow citizens are without even a primitive home while I have the privilege of living in a very pleasant one.
Moreover the abusive father, compellingly played by James Ryan, expelling from this house his daughter to life or death on the streets represents the sort of Australian male I am deeply ashamed of.
Despite my embarrassment at my house setting off those personal reactions, I am pleased I allowed the scenes to be made as this little movie is a gem for the ages - tough viewing that will stimulate your thinking into your own future responses to homeless people and protection of abused women.
The contributions of the young Quinn, who persuaded us to lend the house is outstanding. Her musical score takes you into the world where pain passes by. Her lyrics and singing, together with the real Mel, you don't notice at first because the visual drama has such impact. And as the principal actor Quinn was unrecognisable once she first climbed the steps in the opening scene. That initial cheerful girl was the Quinn I knew. Entering the house she became the protagonist, Mel. Totally. That gift of disappearing into the person you play is why I am looking forward to her acting in other films - and why I regard my embarrassment a very small penalty indeed. Other viewers can simply appreciate the superb work of the whole team.
