SRP $29.99 2.35:1(16:9) DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 BUENA VISTA

BUENA VISTA has released the critically acclaimed, provocative drama, “RABBIT PROOF FENCE.”  While Kenneth Branagh has a terrific part in the film, it’s the unknown talent that will blow the viewer away.  Director Phillip Noyce took a real journey in order to find the “right” actresses for the main roles, and his intuition was perfect.  Details of his quest are actually covered in the outstanding documentary included here. 

The film is based upon a novel covering a sad but true government approved system of dissolving a race.  In this case, the victims are Aboriginal children of Australia.  Beginning in the 1930s, the government began to take mixed-race children from their homes, to be raised in government schools.  No one seemed to have thought once about the anguish that these children or their parents suffered, and the practice was actually continued until 1970! 

The actual plotline of this film focuses on three young girls, ages 14-10, whom decide to break out of their school and embark on a dangerous adventure along a rabbit-proof fence that runs across Australia, separating rabbits from vegetation.  They know that at some point it runs through their own hometown, so if they can keep to it long enough, they’ll eventually find their way home!

This is a heart-wrenching, inspiring tale and we can’t recommend it enough!  Director Phillip Noyce’s direction is outstanding.  Every moment feels real, and the collective creative efforts of everyone involved, have all come together in creating a film that’s destined to be a classic! 

BUENA VISTA has preserved the film’s 2.35:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement.  The image is flawless!  Colors are spectacular and there’s incredible detail in every frame.  Contrast is also excellent, allowing fore impeccable detail in even the darkest scenes. Fleshtones appear natural throughout. 

BUENA VISTA has also provided a Dolby Digital 5.1 mix.  While there is some great dialogue, this is also a film that thrives on atmosphere, and the soundmix adds significantly in its overall impact.  There are a number of creative surround/panning effects, and the incredible score by Peter Gabriel, is well complimented throughout all speakers. Dialogue is always

BUENA VISTA has provided a wonderful commentary featuring Noyce, Peter Gabriel, Branagh, the screenwriter and author. It’s an involving and passionate commentary, and while all offer great insight, this is clearly Noyce’s domain! His commanding presence is almost unnerving at times, but it’s captivating all the same!   

The documentary is magnificent!  This is an extra that has to be seen! Even if one typically shies away from extras, make time for it. It’s one of the most honest “behind-the-scenes” documentaries we’ve ever seen.