Here Out West

Here Out West sets out with a powerful goal-to tell a series of interconnected stories from diverse Western Sydney communities-and in many ways, it succeeds in offering a fresh, grounded perspective rarely seen in Australian cinema. The film is full of cultural richness and heartfelt moments, clearly made with love and authenticity.

Told through eight writers and multiple directors, the anthology format is both the film's strength and weakness. While some segments are emotionally resonant and beautifully performed, others feel underdeveloped or tonally disconnected. The constant shifting can make it hard to stay invested, with some narratives stronger than others.

The cast, made up largely of fresh talent and community voices, delivers sincere performances across the board. The film's commitment to representing a multicultural Australia is admirable and long overdue, especially in a cinematic landscape that often overlooks these stories.

However, Here Out West doesn't quite reach the narrative cohesion or emotional depth it aims for. It feels more like a promising showcase of emerging voices than a fully satisfying standalone film.

That said, it's definitely worth watching for its bold attempt to reshape what "Australian cinema" looks like. A mixed bag-but one with heart.

Nothing sanitised in this production, so many stories interlinked ( style reminded me of The Turning) , real people just trying to get by , love of family, migrants trying hard to make the best of things in a new country, mixed race friendships forming, the ridicule people suffer, the generational gap relevant to all peoples, all so honest - the Eternal Dance segment was so beautifully told , the Musician so sad , I cried with the young nurse - and then we saw her story her own separation . We really loved this film and all its stories , and all its peoples - a very brave and wonderful project ! Congratulations to all involved !

Nothing worth viewing here, it's a diverse-hire film. Nothing compelling, nothing heart-wrenching at all, there are no real conflicts or stakes in the story.

This is a TV Mini-series at best not for the big screen.

Just watch the trailer and see if you ae moved.

A bunch of short films connecting to a larger story which doesn't really work for this film format and is not seamless at all, if anything there are cracks in the story especially with some amateur acting. I applaud a cast of unknowns but at least bring truth to characters to Western Sydney.

Here Out West tries to avoid cliche's and stereotypes but in doing so you are represented with boring, unrealistic characters that are not interesting or believable.

A pat on the back for trying but this isn't a moving story at all, and I promise you it's not emotional and it won't stay with you, you'll forget about it as soon as you finish watching it.

I thought it was just great to see all the different migrant communities represented in a local Australian production. Sure some of them were amateurs but the writing was solid as was the directing.

Sometimes you just don't realise how many different communities make up this great city of ours.

Plus, it was refreshing to see normal looking people represented in a major production and given a go at the roles of the crew as well.

The stories really came together well and I didn't think at any point that it was far fetched or poorly shot.

I'd highly recommend this to all Austalians!

Give it a go!

I loved this! As humans; we all have a story. And this beautiful story emulated that perfectly. The interlock between the stories was spectacular too.

This story was human, reflective and emotional.

Whether established, or establishing; in a country - first, second, or third, generation (especially in Australia) this movie reiterated that we all feel, we all dream; and want to set our souls free; we want to belong.

This movie was just beautiful in that regard. I laughed and cried and wanted to delve deeper.

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