I really liked 'Don't Tell' and I'll tell you why! The film is an important documenting of a shift in the legal system in Australia. It brings to light cogent stories of abuse and neglect in religious schools and systems. With loads of great actors: Aden Young has never been better (and he was feted some 25 years ago as the next big thing) as the lawyer who fights the good fight for justice. The iconic Jack Thompson is suitably pompous and majestic as the QC representing the young girl's case in court. Susie Porter is indelibly moving as the guilt ridden mother of the girl at the centre of the story. Sara West is a revelation as the aforementioned victim. Her bluster and trauma are never far from the surface and it is an often guttural portrayal - so believable and crucial to the film's success.
With 3 writers adapting the story to the screen; Director Tori Garrett efficiently but prosaically delivers the journey; at times procedural but also very realistically and emotionally. Rachel Griffiths and Jacqueline McKenzie (two international stars and award winners in their own right) give supporting turns; the former a little too mannered for my liking here, and the latter a little arch in her performance, but it is great to see such terrific actors lend some heft to this production. It shines such an important light on an all too common issue but until recently not discussed widely as it should. 'Don't Tell' tells an essential yarn and does it with dignity.
