Movie Review: Ladies In Black

Plot Outline: In the summer of 1959, Lisa, a shy schoolgirl, takes a job in Sydney’s prestigious department store Goode’s. There, her life is changed forever when she meets the “ladies in black.”

This movie is a beautiful depiction of the past. Based on the award-winning novel, The Women in Black by Madeleine St John, it addresses the difference between men and women, and how our perception of others can be an illusion.

This movie shows the humble beginnings of female rights in the minds of women, and the subtle mind-shift that led to the rights that women enjoy today. For example, the theme of girls changing their names after marriage is explored.

The movie explores other cultures, individually and collectively. It exposes the beauty of other cultures and does not resort to petty stereotypes. Positively showing that no matter the language, emotions are universal.

Watching this movie makes you realize that many enjoyments that are taken for granted previously did not exist. It gives hope that certain sufferings we experience now will not exist in the future.

Ladies In Black does a great job of proving that happiness is achievable, regardless of time and place. It also tries to balance many themes and multiple storylines in one plot and is successful for most parts.

Julia Ormond as Magda is the icing on the cake for me. I believe she did a magnificent job portraying a vivacious store manager, who is living her best life although exiled from her native land. Julia truly displayed an exquisite show of talent and a true understanding of her character.

Though Julia Ormond’s portrayal was my favourite, the overall acting quality in Ladies in Black is spectacular. The actors successfully draw you into their world. The movie won four awards at the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts.

This movie might seem drab at times. Also, some people might find it disconcerting that there are multiple storylines running simultaneously. However, I truly enjoyed Ladies In Black.

Ladies in Black is a simple and enchanting delight that will envelop you in its cocoon of positive emotions.

Genre: Drama/Comedy

Directed by: Bruce Beresford

Distributed by: Sony Pictures

Have you watched Ladies In Black? What did you think of it? Let us know in the comments.

Ndewoo!