When it comes to classic Australian cinema, few films are more iconic, treasured and utterly us than the likes of Strictly Ballroom, Romeo and Juliet, Muriel’s Wedding, The Dressmaker, Moulin Rouge! and Red Dog. Standing as some of my all-time favourites, these films, among others, all have one common factor – the editing genius of Jill Bilcock.
Jill Bilcock: Dancing the Invisible is a documentary tribute to the life and work of Australia’s very own internationally renowned film editor.
Bilcock tells us to ‘cut the bogus’ as this film explores what it means to be an editor. Their responsibility is to the audience, and they must have a great sense of observation and patience. It’s a career full of surprises.
The documentary balances the use of interviews, archival footage, home video and movie clips to tell the story of Jill’s life. We visit the roots and driving forces of her artistic visions, her early childhood days and passion for travel, and then see her life play out by exploring the films she worked on. It is clear that Jill’s a woman ahead of her times, and that she is esteemed and sought after for her expertise by directors worldwide.
There are some great stories, too, like Jill grabbing a camera herself and shooting the footage she knew she would need in the cutting room, or using outtakes to her advantage. Jill’s artistic eye as an editor is evident throughout the whole film. Bilcock knew what a film needed. She developed a sort of rhythm or beat of a film that she manipulated in the cutting room. Jill is a role model for filmmakers and artists alike.
I really enjoyed this documentary. Editors tend to go under the radar without credit, despite the massive role they have in the production of a film. Jill Bilcock: Dancing the Invisible shines a light on an extremely deserving and talented member of the Australian film industry who otherwise may not have seen the appreciation.
Amelia (15)