The Last of the Knucklemen

The Last of the Knucklemen is a riveting 1979 Australian drama directed by Tim Burstall, starring Gerard Kennedy, Michael Preston, and Peter Hehir. Based on an original play by John Power, it is an exploration of male camaraderie, conflict, and resilience set in the heartland of Australia's outback.

The movie revolves around a group of hard men working in a rugged terrain, extracting precious opal from the harsh, unforgiving Earth with their bare hands. Their work is strenuous and labor-intensive, pitting them against the elements and demanding extreme endurance. Their dwelling, a compound in the middle of nowhere, provides them with minimal relaxation time and safety from the whatsoever. This work environment is home to all kinds of men - some seeking fortune, some hiding from past misdemeanors, and others striving to survive.

In the centre of the plot is the crew’s foreman, who is dutifully betrayed by the charismatic Gerard Kennedy as Tarzan. With a disciplined hand, Tarzan, manages the group. His authoritative persona is well-respected among the men who always look at him for guidance and leadership in difficult times. They live by his rules, and reckon, him to be a symbol of strength and endurance.

However, the equilibrium of this close-knit team is disrupted with the arrival of a new member, Tom, played by the talented Michael Preston. Tom is a drifter, wary of setting permanent roots due to his past. His devil-may-care attitude and a sharp tongue set him apart from others, causing disruption in the group dynamics. Tom's presence in the compound threatens Tarzan's authority. This unease sets the stage for a conflict that both the men try to avoid but seems inevitable in this isolating backdrop.

The compound then transforms from being just a dwelling place into an arena for the unfolding drama. Tom's conflict with Tarzan, the strategies used by both sides, whispers of a mutiny, and the silent loyalty of the pack towards their leader - all these create an intense ambiance of suspense and turmoil. The harsh, desolate landscape of the Australian outback serves as a fitting environment, enhancing the movie's narrative further.

Meanwhile, Peter Hehir portrays the character of Pansy, an endearing yet eccentric member of the team, reliably providing comic relief and sometimes levity amidst the testosterone-fueled tensions. He stands out as the soft-spoken, odd one out in this group of hardened men.

Burstall's direction captures the raw energy, explosive tempers, and lived camaraderie amongst this group of men, all against the raw and brutal backdrop of the mighty Outback. His deftness in handling character development, their on-screen chemistry, and the time-leaping narrative all contribute to the film's standing as an Australian classic. It’s a testament to the trials and tribulations of manual laborers and their unique experiences, far removed from modern urban landscapes.

The script, also written by John Power, has nuances of complex masculinity, interpersonal conflicts, power dynamics, and emotional vulnerability. It effectively catches the essence of camaraderie that men share, especially those living in harsh conditions, cut off from the trappings of regular society. These themes are explored through the lens of maturing friendship, enmity - both mentioned and unspoken - and the grueling toil that inevitably bonds them.

The Last of the Knucklemen is a cinematographic testament to the undeniable toughness and crude charm of the Australian opal miners of the 1970s. It's a story about men, their hardships, friendships, rivalries, resilience, and most importantly, their survival in the feral landscapes of Outback Australia. Burstall's unique storytelling coupled with Power’s memorable dialogue and riveting performances from the cast ensures that the movie leaves an indelible impact on its viewers. This film is a must-watch for everyone interested in Australian cinema, human stories, and gripping dramas.