Directed by Molly Reynolds

Is this going to be the final film featuring much-loved Indigenous Australian actor David Gulpilil?
If it is to be, then at least he gets to write the script and tell the story of his story.

In 2017, David was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer and given just 6 months to live. Obviously the situation then looked quite dire. So much so, this film’s working title was ‘The Life and Death of David Gulpilil’! Thankfully, he is still with us to this day.

My Name is Gulpilil is a reflective, perhaps even therapeutic, documentary for the acclaimed actor. He talks to the camera with youthful enthusiasm about a very successful career; detailing where and how it all began in the 1971 film, Walkabout. Quite incredibly, Walkabout went walkabout itself, all the way to the Cannes Film Festival where it was nominated for its most prestigious award; the Palme d’Or. Though not the eventual winner, it did lead David to meeting the Queen of England! It’s such an absolute pleasure listening to David share these types of experiences. He’s an adorable human being and it’s evident his undying passion for performance in its many forms will certainly live on.

Fast forward 50 years, David Gulpilil is the only actor to appear in both of the two highest grossing Australian films of all time and has also had a role in what many critics consider to be some of the very best films to hail from our great country. He certainly has so much to be proud of.

His vulnerability, uncertainty and even moments of fear are on raw display as he speaks so openly about his ongoing battle with cancer and facing death at any moment it strikes. For so many who love and cherish this fine actor, these scenes in the film are most sombre to see. Despite being gravely ill, it’s quite endearing how David often finds a way to evoke a smile from those around him and viewers.

My Name is Gulpilil is an intimate and touching documentary; particularly for those who know him on a personal level and have spent several years watching Australian cinema he has been a part of. So, from us to you to David, these five words fittingly best describe your place in our hearts.

Always was. Always will be.

My Name is Gulpilil is showing in selected cinemas across Australia from May 27.

Moviedoc thanks ABCG Film for the invitation to the screening of this film.

Review by Leigh for Moviedoc

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