Director
Paul Damien Williams
(Feature Film Debut)

If you consider yourself a true blue Aussie, then GURRUMUL is essential viewing. As for those belonging to any other ethnicity anywhere in the world, this affectionate portrait of our celebrated indigenous artist presents the rare opportunity to witness him in one final and unmissable performance.

Born blind in Elcho Island, located off the coast of Arhem Land in northern Australia, this Australian documentary shares the incredible and inspiring story of inherently gifted musician, Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu. From a very young age, Gurrumul discovered his genuine love of music through songs and traditions belonging to his Yolngu community. Featuring interviews with several members of Gurrumul’s family and close associates and with the use of previously recorded footage, GURRUMUL takes us behind-the-scenes to document the acutely shy musician’s journey from local hero to global star.

For anyone who may already have prior knowledge of Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu‘s personal story, this excellent documentary remains required viewing beyond what it has to inform. In fact, even just listening to the captivating music and the pure vocal chords of Gurrumul in motion all throughout this feature documentary are worthy of the price of admission alone. These neatly incorporated performance sequences together with the insightful commentary convey the indigenous icon’s significance and his remarkable journey quite intimately. We really are so very fortunate to be on the receiving end of such personal and cultural insights that truly enables and engages viewers to genuinely feel warm affection for Gurrumul’s endearing personality. Just as he would have wished, the documentary chronicling his story is a celebration of his life, career and culture that reaffirms the historical significance of his music and its connection to our great nation.

4 stars

Viewer Discretion
PG (Infrequent mild coarse language)

Trailer
GURRUMUL

 Moviedoc thanks Madman for the invite to the screening of this film

Review by Leigh, Moviedoc
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