Careful, He Might Hear You

Careful, He Might Hear You is an Australian drama film directed by Carl Schultz and released in 1983. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Sumner Locke Elliott. The heart of this movie is the story of the interaction between three women: Vanessa (Wendy Hughes), her young son PS (Nicholas Gledhill), and her sister Lila (Robyn Nevin).

The main plot of the movie follows the custody battle between the two siblings over PS. Lila has been living in England and has returned for PS, whom she intends to take with her overseas. Vanessa is a struggling artist who has raised PS since his birth and is unwilling to give him up to Lila. The tension between the sisters is palpable, and their conflicting desires for PS often put the young boy in the middle.

While the custody battle is at the center of the movie, there are many other subplots and relationships to unpack. The film takes a deep dive into the complexities of family relationships and the intricacies of human emotions. The storytelling is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and the plot is interspersed with nuanced moments of comedy, drama, and tragedy.

Part of what makes this movie so compelling is the performance from the actors. Wendy Hughes, Robyn Nevin, and Nicholas Gledhill all deliver powerful, nuanced performances that draw the audience into the story. Wendy Hughes is particularly captivating as Vanessa, bringing depth and vulnerability to her character. Nicholas Gledhill is also impressive, delivering a standout performance as PS that is both understated and emotionally gripping.

The setting of the movie is also an integral part of the storytelling. The lush greenery of the Australian countryside and the gritty urban streets of Sydney all lend themselves to the emotional tone of the film. The cinematography is expertly crafted, with sweeping landscapes and close-up shots used to great effect.

Throughout the movie, viewers are treated to a rich exploration of the themes of love, family, loyalty, and betrayal. The relationship between PS and Lila is complex, as she tries to win over the love of a child she's essentially just met. Vanessa's struggle to maintain custody of her son is a poignant examination of a mother's love and dedication. The film also touches on other relationships, such as that between Vanessa and her best friend, Olive, who adds another layer of depth and emotion to the story.

The movie's score is also worth mentioning. Composed by Ray Cook, the lush and sweeping orchestral soundtrack complements the emotional beats of the film perfectly. The music adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the story, making the viewer feel all the more invested in the characters and their relationships.

All in all, Careful, He Might Hear You is a gripping, emotionally charged film that explores the complexities of family dynamics and the human experience. With excellent performances, stunning visuals, and an evocative musical score, this is a must-see for anyone who enjoys well-crafted drama.