Watch The Removalists

The Removalists from 1975 is an Australian film directed by Tom Jeffrey and based on a play by David Williamson. The movie explores themes of domestic violence, corruption, and abuse of power through the interactions of two police officers, two sisters, and two removalists during a single day in a suburban Australian town. The plot revolves around the two sisters, Fiona and Kate, who have recently moved in together after Fiona's separation from her abusive husband. As they are waiting for the removalists to arrive to move their furniture, the younger sister, Kate, becomes increasingly fearful of her older sister's volatile temperament and the threat of her ex-husband's return. Meanwhile, two police officers, Ross and Simmonds, respond to a domestic violence call from Fiona's ex-husband, which leads them to Fiona and Kate's apartment complex.

The two removalists, Kenny and his older, more experienced partner, Tom, arrive to begin their job, and get caught up in the unfolding drama. Kenny, who is portrayed as a timid and impressionable character, becomes increasingly drawn into the escalating conflict between the sisters and the police. Meanwhile, Tom uses his position of authority to manipulate and abuse both the sisters and Kenny, revealing his aggressive and sadistic tendencies.

The Removalists is a stark and disturbing portrayal of the dark underbelly of suburban Australian society. The movie's focus on the themes of power dynamics and corruption is a commentary on the larger social and political issues of the time, including police brutality and patriarchal abuse. The performances by the cast are raw and intense, particularly that of Jacki Weaver as the emotionally unstable Fiona.

One of the strengths of the movie is its use of setting and cinematography to emphasize the claustrophobic nature of the characters' environments. The majority of the action takes place within the cramped, nondescript apartment complex, which heightens the tension and anxiety of the characters. The camera work is often tight and close-up, creating a sense of intimacy and discomfort as both the characters and the audience are forced to confront the brutality and corruption present in their society.

Overall, The Removalists is a difficult and challenging movie to watch, but it is an important commentary on the social and political issues of its time. Its themes continue to resonate today and the movie remains a powerful reminder of the dangers of unchecked abuse of power.