Shame
Director: Steve Jodrell
Actors: Deborra-Lee Furness, Tony Barry, Simone Buchanan
PlotIn a small Australian outback town, mysterious newcomer Asta Cadell, a determined and independent motorcycle-riding lawyer, finds herself stranded when her bike breaks down. While waiting for repairs, Asta encounters Lizzie Curtis, a local teenager, who has been sexually assaulted. Asta learns that Lizzie's traumatic experience is part of a larger pattern of abuse and intimidation against the women in the community. The men responsible are protected by the town's silence and complicity. Deeply disturbed by the town's refusal to confront its issues, Asta decides to stand up for Lizzie and the other victims, using her legal skills and tenacity to challenge the deeply ingrained misogyny and corruption.
Asta faces overwhelming resistance from the townspeople, who prefer to ignore or justify the ongoing violence rather than disturb their status quo. Despite facing personal threats and societal pressure, Asta remains resolute in her pursuit of justice. Her presence begins to inspire some of the women in the town to speak out, while others remain fearful and skeptical of change. The tension in the community builds as Asta's efforts expose underlying tensions and force individuals to reckon with their complicity or courage in the face of systemic abuse. What follows is a gripping struggle for truth and justice that will push Asta, Lizzie, and the entire town to confront their perceptions and moral boundaries. The unfolding events test both individual resolve and the power of solidarity against indifference.
Writers: Beverly Blankenship, Michael Brindley
Release Date: 15 Jul 1988
Runtime: 94 min
Rating: R
Country: Australia
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Shame blends restrained storytelling with authentic emotional depth, now accessible in improved Blu-ray packaging with insightful extras.
Read our review of Shame Blu-ray Schande Slipcover in Original Pressing to find out more