Good-bye Old Man

1977

1h 6m

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Overview

At the request of a dying Tiwi man and his family on Melville Island, this film was made of the pukumani (bereavement) ceremony to follow his death. The film observes the family through the long period of preparation for the ceremony, following age-old traditions. Dancing and face-painting are rehearsed, to the family’s satisfaction, and because “things should be right for this film”. For the two days of ceremony, the community moves to Carslake Beach where a smoking ritual is held to protect the participants from spirits. The cemetery poles are erected, traditional dances are performed along with personal dances by family members. Facial and body decoration is elaborate and spectacular. After saying a final farewell to the old man, the community and the family leave the Beach and return to the village where routine life resumes.

Status: Released

Language: EN

Production Information

Production Countries

Australia

Spoken Languages

English

Quick Facts

Release Date	January 1, 1977
Status	Released
Language	EN
Website	Visit Site

Cast

Key Crew

David MacDougall

Producer

David MacDougall

Director

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