Film Reviews & Movie Analysis

Adapted from Joan Lindsay’s 1967 novel of the same name, written by Alice Addison & Beatrix Christian.

Broadcast: BBC Two
Concluded: 15/08/18
Synopsis: On Valentines day 1900, three girls disappear whilst attending a school picnic.
Cast: Natalie Dormer, Lily Sullivan, Lola Bessis, Samara Weaving, Madeleine Madden
Episodes: Six

When three students and one of their teachers disappear at the mysterious Hanging Rock, questions are raised about the school and its hard-faced Headmistress Mrs Appleyard.

Of the six episodes in this series, I really should have stopped after the second.

The mystery did intrigue me, (what happened to the girls?! Is that rock magic?! OMG is it time travel?!) and that’s what kept me coming back week after week eventually leading to my complete and utter disappointment.

Away from the Valentines day mystery, some of the other plot strands they pulled into the story came across as both weak and fleeting. Some lasted an episode, others fizzled and died before they got going, and a few were just left unfinished which is always the most annoying of all.

The uncertainty between reality, fantasy and the supernatural was apropos, as ‘Hanging Rock’ gave me straight up Uluru vibes. Plus there are a lot of science ficton-esque rumors and folk lore linked to paths that should stay un-wandered in Australia.

Despite it being an adaptation, in terms of British Television is was something different to watch – a Period Mystery. I wouldn’t recommend it, however I was drawn to the shows comparative difference to everything else that’s on. From that stark pink title card that kicked off every episode, Natalie Dormer’s impostor headmistress, and the chilling Australian backdrop.

Trailer Below…..