Being Venice

Being Venice is a compelling 2012 Australian film directed by Miro Bilbrough that explores the intricate complexities of familial relationships, personal crises, and the journey of self-discovery. Starring Alice McConnell, Garry McDonald, and Simon Stone, the film offers an intimate portrayal of human experiences and emotions, combined with poignant storytelling and an exceptional performance by the cast.

Being Venice tells the story of Venice, lead character portrayed by the talented Alice McConnell, a woman in her mid-thirties living in Sydney. Venice holds a certain charm, eccentric and yet relatable, she is a woman navigating her life amidst emotional upheaval and personal transformations. Her character is a freelance illustrator, independent and resiliently single, and denotes a sharp representation of a modern woman grappling with the pressures of societal norms and personal aspirations. McConnell delivers an arresting performance, bringing to life the raw and emotional journey of Venice with conviction and grit.

The storyline unfolds when Venice’s father, Arthur, portrayed by Garry McDonald, pays an impromptu visit from overseas after a relationshop breakdown. Not long after Arthur’s entry, Venice's half-brother, Micky (Simon Stone), arrives unexpectedly after a long absence as both of them grapple with personal crises. This sudden intrusion into Venice's unsettled peace adds new dimensions to the plot. Arthur, who is an imposing character and Machiavellian in nature, brings forth an element of emotional turmoil in Venice’s life. McDonald's exceptional portrayal of Arthur’s complex character highlights the intricacies of a strained father-daughter dynamic.

On the other hand, Stone’s performance as the exuberant and troubled Micky leaves a powerful impression. His arrival instigates a whirlwind of mixed emotions, presenting an emotional roller-coaster for Venice. The brother-sister relationship adds another layer to the film's exploration of family dynamics and how these shape individual identities.

Set against the backdrop of Sydney’s beautiful oceanside scenery, the movie has a raw, authentic feel to it. The city serves not just as an aesthetic backdrop but also becomes a character in itself, reflecting the tumultuous emotional states of the characters with its varying moods. Especially impactful are the beach scenes that capture the tormented beauty of the ocean mirroring Venice's own struggles.

The cinematography, under Virginia Lumsdoyle’s skilled eye, is subtle but impactful. It reflects the nuances of the story, focusing on creating a visual narrative that complements the emotional depth of the screenplay. The viewer is drawn into Venice's world, experiencing her emotional struggles and moments of poignancy as the city pulses around her. The impact is heightened by the evocative music score that further aligns with the emotions depicted on screen.

Being Venice is a film about breaking away, understanding the depths of one's emotions and the need to take control of one's life. It throws light on the complexity of a flawed family picture with its emotional intricacies and turmoil. The film is about a woman pulled into her past while trying to make her way forward, parallely exploring the theme of struggling with societal expectations.

Miro Bilbrough's directorial execution of the complex, layered script is noteworthy. Characters are well-etched, relationships are realistically portrayed, and the emotional struggle of each character is captured sincerely. The narrative walks a fine line between melancholic introspection and emotional catharsis, creating a poignant and moving story.

Being Venice is a film that lingers on in the minds of its viewers, resonating with its explore of human relationships and personal trauma. It’s about life's cruel circles, forced confrontations, letting go, and the ever-evolving journey of self-discovery. This movie is recommended for those who appreciate an emotionally driven story with well-rounded characters and a compelling storyline.

To conclude, Being Venice is a heartfelt portrayal of an individual's struggle with her past, the tumultuous journey of self-discovery, and the complicated dynamics of a non-traditional family. Its distinctive narrative style, coupled with solid performances by the cast, makes Being Venice a deeply relatable and moving experience for its audience. It is a beautiful tapestry of human relationships, introspection and self-realisation against the backdrop of a stunning Sydney landscape.