Under Streetlights opens on a somber note. Eighteen year old Ella has just lost her mother. While taking a breather from the wake, she hears music and is instantly drawn to it. She is impressed to learn that it is one of the bar staff’s creations. Izak, records at home, a ramshackle house in the middle of a dusty street.
Izak may just be “playing on his phone” but he is the responsible one in the family. He’s the one who takes care of the family. Even though his dad is employed, Izak rations his takings between his unemployed relatives and his savings.
Ella may be from the “right side” of the tracks but her life is similarly fraught. While Ella is processing her grief, her father is drowning it with one too many stubbies. When Ella’s father finds out about Izak, he wields his police badge while confronting Izak’s family.
It is at this moment that we are reminded of two households, both alike in dignity, from fair Verona.
The two families look different on paper but Under Streetlights subtly highlights their similarities. Instead of creating a wider divide between the two families, Under Streetlights has treated a common First Nations narrative with sensitivity. Yes, alcoholism is a problem but it does not discriminate against skin tones. We see both families are fractured but despite the cracks, two creative souls are fighting to thrive.
I found it refreshing that Under Streetlights showcased two protagonists who don’t fall in love with each other. It would have been very tempting to add a romantic element to the story but the movie chooses to focus on their platonic collaboration. By putting romantic inclinations aside and highlighting their shared creative goals, the audience is free to concentrate on the music.
And the music, ah the music. The soundtrack comprises mainly original music by both leads, who are aspiring musicians in real life. The catchy music blends hip hop’s raps and beats with pop’s vocals and easy listening. I was immediately drawn to Madison Hull’s captivating voice. When she first unveils it, I found myself closing my eyes so that I could just drink in that delicious melody. Her voice has a purity that almost reminds me of Katie Noonan’s.
Just like how the protagonists use music as a a creative escape, the musical interludes offer timely breaks between moments of heartache and drama. The stunning shots of the Central Desert also offer a visual feast, giving the movie a dreamlike vibe. You feel like you’re in a place so removed yet so familiar to Australian audiences. You may not know the exact location but you know this is Australia.
Under Streetlights is the first all-locally crewed and cast feature film to be shot in Alice Springs. It is a commendable first effort and cements my overall impression of this movie. It is a worthy addition to our growing catalogue of Australian films to be proud of.
Under Streetlights opens nationwide, 12th December.