Lionel
The Age
Friday October 17, 2008
Lionel
3/5 (80 min) MRespectful, thorough, absorbing documentary chronicling the eventful and chequered life of Aboriginal boxing legend Lionel Rose that combines talking-head commentary from Rose and friends with extensive archival footage. These long sequences showing Rose fighting, being interviewed and being adored by huge crowds provide the most valuable insights into Rose's impact as a historical figure, implicitly demonstrating how his astonishing celebrity and marriage to a white woman represented a breakthrough in the public's acceptance of indigenous people. The account of his life after retirement is more sobering, putting a critical light on Rose's relationship with his own people and his ability to handle success. Director Eddie Martin proves how the best tributes to great men are ones that acknowledge their failings, not hide them. -- JIM SCHEMBRI
© 2008 The Age