Reviewed by Kate Rodger
Balibo
is based on the true story of the five Australian-based journalists
known as the Balibo Five, killed during the 1975 Indonesian invasion of
East Timor.
Australian director Robert Connelly
bases his version of events on the book Cover-Up,
casting well-known Aussie Anthony LaPaglia
(Lantana / Without a Trace)
as Roger East, another journalist killed while looking for the five
before him.
Cinematically this film’s narrative
takes a while to take hold, but this works in its favour, adding to the
impact of these tragic events as they unfold.
Four stars.
Balibo
:: Director: Robert Connelly
::
Starring: Anthony LaPaglia, Oscar Isaac, Nathan
Phillips, Damon Gameau, Tom Wright, Gyton Grantley
:: Running Time: 111 mins
:: Rating: M - contains violence & offensive language
:: Release Date: February 18, 2010
