Unfolding Florence: The Many Lives of Florence Broadhurst

Unfolding Florence: The Many Lives of Florence Broadhurst is a fascinating documentary that skillfully encapsulates a blend of historical recounting, whimsical storytelling, and exquisite graphic design to explore the ostentatious life and mysterious death of a consequential figure in 20th-century design - Florence Broadhurst.

This colourful, quirky, and engaging documentary is directed by Gillian Armstrong and co-stars Judi Farr, Felicity Price, and Hannah Garbo, among others, who portray and voice some of the key figures in Broadhurst's life. The film was released in 2006 and has since charmed audiences with its blend of real-life narratives and culled archival resources, offering an impactful visual representation of Broadhurst's journey and creative output.

Florence Broadhurst was undeniably a complex and ever-evolving woman. For most of her life, she re-invented herself, undergoing a multitude of transformations. She was born in rural Australia but reinvented herself as a French couturier, a Shanghai nightclub singer, a Friend of royalty, and finally as a leading figure in the art and design world of the era. Broadhurst created hand-printed wallpapers and fabrics with a touch of lavish style and spectacular exuberance, making her work a crucial part of Australia's contribution to the world of art and design.

Unfolding Florence delves into Broadhurst's life, starting from her humble beginnings in rural Australia at the turn of the 20th century, her travels to Asia, her extravagant life in London as an aristocrat, and her final reinvention in her mature years as a designer in Sydney's surging cosmopolitan scene of the 1970s. The film serves as a fascinating examination of this multidimensional woman, who lived larger than life and left an indelible impression on Australia's cultural landscape.

The film adopts a unique narrative style. It seamlessly merges dramatic re-enactments of Broadhurst's life, with Judi Farr playing the older Broadhurst and Felicity Price as the younger one. Both actresses deliver compelling performances that capture the relentless energy, creativity, and audacious nature of this unique woman.

Besides the captivating performances, the documentary features an extraordinary mix of traditional techniques, such as interviews with people who knew Broadhurst, beautifully restored footage from her life, news clips, and photographs interspersed with dazzling animation that mirrors Broadhurst's vibrant design palette. The film blurs the line between documentary and dramatic storytelling, intimately exploring Broadhurst's contribution to the design world while delving into her complicated, vibrant, and secretive life.

Unfolding Florence also explores the darker undertones and the unsolved mysteries surrounding Broadhurst's life and death. The documentary does not shy away from investigating the harsher realities of Broadhurst's life and the eeriness of her unsolved murder. These elements contribute to the overall depth of the film, adding intrigue and provoking thought about the undeniably complicated legacy of Florence Broadhurst.

The film offers a remarkable tribute to a remarkably talented and memorable woman, harnessing the power of storytelling to bring her legacy alive. It's a feast for the eyes, with Broadhurst's stunningly beautiful and graphic wallpapers serving a significant role in the film's visual language, providing a rich tapestry that keeps the audience mesmerised throughout.

While the film's main focus is on Broadhurst, it's far from simply a biography of a design legend. Unfolding Florence is also a thoughtful exploration of broader themes such as identity, reinvention, women's role in society, and the intersection of art and commerce.

Unfolding Florence: The Many Lives of Florence Broadhurst is ultimately a fascinating watch not only for enthusiasts of design and history but also for any viewer interested in compelling storytelling and the exploration of a unique, enigmatic life. Through this documentary, we navigate the complex layers of a charismatic and flamboyant figure whose life was as vibrant and dynamic as the designs she left behind. This is a film that celebrates the life and impact of a true original, highlighting her role not simply as a player on the stage of Australian design, but as a multitalented woman whose many lives are worth unfolding.