Rudie Reviews Nicolas Roeg’s Walkabout DVD Re-Release [Criterion Collection New Releases]

In an early episode of The CriterionCast, Travis George stated that it wouldn’t be the worst idea if Criterion re-released their first 100 spine numbers. Criterion DVDs have been released since 1998 and these films have looked very dated compared to today’s releases and blu-ray titles. Criterion has re-released spine number 10, Nicolas Roeg’s “Walkabout” and it has received the much needed retouch treatment in a glorious 2 disc collection.

Set in the wilderness of the Australian outback, two children are abandoned by their father. Their journey to find civilization leads them to discover something more about themselves and a greater understanding of different people and cultures. This was a film we highlighted in  episode 30 with very special guest David Bax of The Battleship Pretention. We gave the film a glowing review and discussed Roeg’s use of language, editing and lighting to properly illustrate the story being told. These elements are brightened by Criterion’s new restoration.

Everything about this release has been updated. From its cover artwork to the bonus features inside, Criterion has spared no expense in delivering this experience to the home viewer. From the moment you put this DVD into your player you will see the difference. The opening menu alone is something to notice. The interesting choice in creating an animated menu with actual restored scenes from the film is very exciting. This is an upgrade from the 1998 release of moving stills on a drab screen selection menu.

From the opening shots of Adelaide, Australia you get a feeling of wonder seeing this urban jungle pop. The restoration is tantamount to the experience presented, cleaning up the images ravaged by years of decay and buildup. The philosophy of Criterion is to restore the film to (or close to) its original version but not at the cost of the experience. You can see such detail and care on the screen. It is absolutely breathtaking!

In this re-release, Criterion has treated its viewers with more special features including a retrospective from Jenny Agutter (Girl) and Luc Roeg (Boy) on their experiences making “Walkabout” at a very young age. Moreover, Luc Roeg’s insight as a 6 year-old boy on his father making this film is invaluable, creating a better understanding of his family and film. Plus a hour hour documentary on the life and times of David Gumpilil (Aboriginal Boy) is wonderful to watch. He is probably the most filmed actor in Australian Cinema history; spanning from his first film, the poetic “Walkabout” to Hollywood fanfare such as “Crocodile Dundee”.

“Walkabout” is a magical, somewhat of a, fairy tale of children understanding each other. It is very engaging and sincere. It’s not very often that we are treated to film as poetry in cinema today and in that regard, “Walkabout” is refreshing. This release is perfect for anyone who has never seen this film or anyone looking to upgrade. Worth watching!

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