Initiation is a 1987 Australian adventure drama thriller film directed by Michael Pearce based on his idea and starring Bruno Lawrence and Rodney Harvey.
Contents
Plot
After the death of his mother, teenager Danny Molloy leaves New York to find his father Nat, who lives on an isolated farm in South Australia with Sal and her teenage daughter Stevie. Because income from the farm isn't sufficient, Nat uses his aeroplane to smuggle marijuana for the mafia. Danny accidentally burns down the shed but saves the bales of contraband which they hurriedly load onto the plane before the police arrive. The plane crashes into mountainous country and since his father is wounded, Danny has to set off alone through the bush, guided by a supernatural connection with his Aboriginal mentor.
Cast
Rodney Harvey as Danny Molloy
Bruno Lawrence as Nat Molloy
Miranda Otto as Stevie
Arna-Maria Winchester as Sal
Bobby Smith as Kulu
Tony Barry as Pat
Luciano Catenacci as Carlo
Production
The film was shot in Adelaide and the Blue Mountains. It was completed in January 1987.
Release
The film was pre-sold to US distributor Goldfarb for $850,000 but Goldfarb later backed out of this commitment claiming they did not have the money.
Home media
A DVD transfer of the film was released in Australia by Flashback Entertainment, Cat. No. 24374
Accolades
Bobby Smith was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the 1987 AFI Awards.