Tracks Review (1 Viewer)

[Yavin]

Drawing its inspiration from Smolan's real-life photos (some of which appear alongside the film's closing credits), Tracks is — unsurprisingly — a beautifully shot film, invoking the majestic beauty of the rugged Australian wilderness in order to fully immerse us, the viewer, in Robyn's emotions and experiences. Curran and his director of photography, Mandy Walker (who was also responsible for the lush visuals of Baz Luhrmann's down-under epic, Australia), capture the harsh terrain with the periodic aerial shot and sweeping ground-level vista, but otherwise the camera rarely ever wavers from its steadfast focus on Wasikowska. In essence, it's her performance that directs the narrative and not the other way around.

Aside from looking very much the part — sunburnt shoulders and all — Wasikowska completely vanishes behind Robyn's wavy blonde locks, and there's never a shadow of a doubt that she's striving to complete her journey with every fibre of her being. Her chemistry with Driver (who does well in an understated, yet vital role, helping Robyn to hold onto her sanity when she needs it most) adds a graceful subtext to the film, as it's through her conversations with Rick — with whom she gradually develops a friendship over the course of the story — that we learn more about Robyn and her backstory.

4 out of 5. As the saying goes, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. Tracks lives and breathes by this credo, and the result is a powerhouse film filled with breathtaking imagery that will inspire hope, awe and admiration in viewers. Mia Wasikowska's strong performance reminds us why, even going on four decades later, Robyn Davidson's story remains such a potent example of the power of the human spirit — a tale of true courage and perseverance in the face of adversity. But above all else, the film is a testament to the notion that anything is achievable, so long as the flame of passion burns brightly enough.

My full review can be found here.