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Boundaries of the Heart

Boundaries of the Heart (1988)

Jan 01, 1988 1h 45m Drama

A small desert town in western Australia is the scene of several love affairs in this romantic drama. Forty-year-old Stella (Wendy Hughes) works at her father's hotel and bar. She receives annual New Year's marriage proposals from rodeo rider Andy Ford (John Hargreaves), who talks himself into asking her one more time. Stella's father Billy (Norman Kaye) is a former cricket star whose career ended early when he was involved in a sex scandal. She spends the night with vacationing Arthur (Michael Siberry) when his car breaks down. Andy elects not to pop the question to Stella in lieu of her one-night stand with the stranger. When Billy elects to marry June Thompson (Julie Nihill), the local gossipmongers have a field day recalling the woman's promiscuous past.

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Directed by Lex Marinos

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Lex Marinos
Writer
  • Peter Yeldham
Producer
  • Patric Juillet

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Boundaries of the Heart examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Lex Marinos brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Boundaries of the Heart took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1988, when this film was released:
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Boundaries of the Heart shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike BabaKiueria, which focuses more on action than character development, Boundaries of the Heart offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Perverted Adolescence and Wake in Fright explore similar territory, Boundaries of the Heart stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1988
  • Runtime: 1h 45m

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