Rabbit Proof Fence Essay

The film, “Rabbit Proof Fence,” directed by Phillip Noyce, explores the themes surrounding the actions of Chief Protector A.O. Neville. The film is set in the 1930s where racism towards Aborigines was rampant, both institutionally, and on a personal basis. A.O Neville’s actions caused Molly, Gracie, Daisy and their parents grief and anguish, however, he cannot solely be blamed for his actions. The Aboriginal act passed through Parliament in 1931 was the main reason for the hundreds of children taken away from their parents for assimilation and where white values were encouraged. His actions were a product of this ideology during his time, and he thought that his paternalistic approach was right.

Assimilation was one of the main reasons for Aboriginal hardships during that time. The effects of assimilation can be seen during the early scenes where the three girls were torn away from their parents. The music portrays the panic of the mothers and children by using a fast tempo and rhythmic drumbeat. Suspense is built by the fast chopping and changing of images of the children, the mothers and Riggs, the policeman in the car who abducted them. He we can see the full extent of control over the Aboriginal lives and how much power the Aboriginal Act
The law enforced them forget their language and way of life and instead convert into Christians and wear westernised clothing. This is seen in a powerful seen where Daisy spoke Nardoo, their Aboriginal dialect, and was immediately stopped for doing so by an Aboriginal authority- “We don’t speak that gibberish here.” The policy denied them of their heritage which Molly could not bear as her culture was who she was. Neville cannot be solely held responsible for the conversion of Aboriginal children as he was merely a public servant of the