SATELLITE BOY

Catriona McKenzie’s debut film brings us the tale of a young boy’s coming of age in a land of ancestry that he had previously taken for granted. Pete (Cameron Wallaby) is a twelve-year old boy living with his grandfather in the outback. Though his mother left for the city, Pete believes she will return to build a restaurant in the abandoned outdoor cinema that is their current home.

McKenzie’s first feature shines a light on the wonders of this land and its importance in traditional Aboriginal culture. Unfortunately, the theme that drives the narrative, the demolition that puts the boy’s home at stake, is left very much unexplored. (HP)

**1/2