Note: I apologize if today’s bonuses are repeats; my records have become somewhat disorganized!
Welcome, dear readers, to another edition of the Sunday Morning Movie. This week, we delve into a thought-provoking film that explores themes of isolation, resilience, and the enduring power of love: Exile.
Next week, we’ll discuss the classic sci-fi film, Blade Runner:
Reviews of Exile:
Letterboxd states:
This film stands out as a solid existential art piece, buoyed by its stunning cinematography that captures the rugged Tasmanian coastline. The cast is exceptional and reflects the best talent the country had to offer at the time. Aden Young excels at portraying tortured souls, and here he delivers a powerful performance. Claudia Karvan remains enchanting, embodying grace and beauty. David Field brings depth to Timothy, a member of an isolated settler community that clings to extremist beliefs yet exhibits empathy as he navigates the complexities of aiding Peter Costello, the exiled protagonist. The narrative may feel sparse, but it’s laden with tension, as the unreliable perspective of the protagonist blurs the line between reality and hallucination. This film marks a deviation from Cox’s earlier urban-focused works, leaning more towards a self-contained exploration of an alternative past.
You can also read more from Variety:
In his second adaptation of a book by E.L. Grant Watson (following last year’s “The Nun and the Bandit”), Australian filmmaker Paul Cox ventures further away from the urban relationship dramas that initially brought him acclaim on the international arthouse circuit. “Exile” is an ambitious and sometimes surreal drama that grapples with challenging themes that are not easily portrayed on screen. Expect mixed responses.
My perspective:
This film is a visual and intellectual feast. The breathtaking Tasmanian landscapes create a stunning backdrop as the narrative weaves together themes of isolation, fear, the essence of existence, and the gravity of memory. With its mystical elements—visions and ghosts—the boundaries between madness and revelation become increasingly blurred. ⭐⭐⭐, a film worth revisiting.
Director: Paul Cox
Writer: Paul Cox
Source Novel: E.L. Grant Watson
Plot Summary (Spoilers Ahead!):
In the 19th century, Peter, a young Australian, makes a grave mistake. In an attempt to win the hand of a wealthy man’s daughter, he steals the man’s sheep, leading to his exile on a remote island off the coast.
Left with only basic tools and his own ingenuity, Peter works hard to survive—building a rudimentary shelter and foraging for food. He receives occasional supplies from a friend, and also finds companionship in Mary, who chooses to stay with him. Together, they share an intimate relationship, resulting in the birth of a baby.
As time passes, Peter’s mental state begins to unravel. He experiences visions of his former love—the wealthy man’s daughter—clad in a red dress, sometimes hauntingly drifting in the surf. Additionally, he hears the whispers of a long-deceased priest whose apparition roams the island. The lines between what is real and what is imagined blur.
When their child is baptized by a local minister, Mary wishes for their baby to grow in the grace of God. However, as an outlaw, Peter cannot legally marry her. Yet, he calls upon the natural elements—the wind and the sea—to unite them, and the film concludes with the couple embracing in contentment.
***
Bonus Features:
No 6207 A Study in Steel 1935
A well-crafted film showcasing the intricate process of creating a massive steam locomotive from basic bar steel. It’s astonishing to witness the craftsmanship involved in building such a colossal machine.
This is what Victorian people sounded like
In a previous video, I highlighted the oldest voices preserved through recordings made on Édouard-Léon Scott de Martinville’s phonautograph and Thomas Edison’s early tinfoil phonograph. This time, we’ll showcase how efforts to promote Edison’s improved phonograph in Britain led to the preservation of the voices of notable Victorians—from poets like Robert Browning to political figures such as William Gladstone. We will also explore how Edison’s competitors finally succeeded in capturing the voice of Queen Victoria.
Mayan Ball Game, Pok Ta Pok, at Kun Che, Cozumel
A vibrant recreation of the Mayan ball game Pok Ta Pok at Kun Che, Cozumel. Teams compete to bounce a 9-pound rubber ball through designated rings on the court walls. Recorded in June 2022.
Rare WWI Aerial Dogfight Footage (1916) | Colorized & Upscaled
This footage, taken from ‘War As It Really Is’ (1916), was filmed and distributed by Donald C. Thompson, one of the earliest American war correspondents who documented World War I closely.
Thompson was celebrated for his calmness under fire; one journalist described him as possessing “more chilled-steel nerve than any man I know,” a reputation earned through extensive experience filming on active fronts rather than from a distance.
Over the Front – original aircraft footage (b&w, silent)
This footage showcases original scenes of World War I aircraft being prepared for takeoff and in flight. It served as reference material for Peter Jackson’s video produced for the Over the Front exhibit at the Australian War Memorial.
The 280mm Atomic Cannon – Nuclear Artillery Test
In 1949, the Picatinny Arsenal was assigned the task of creating a nuclear-capable artillery piece. The engineer Robert Schwartz adapted the design, scaling up the 240mm shell and using the German K5 railroad gun as inspiration for the carriage. The design’s approval by the Pentagon was significantly aided by Samuel Feltman, and developmental efforts began swiftly, culminating in a demonstration model that participated in Dwight Eisenhower’s inaugural parade in January 1953.
The Fantastic Space Art of Angus McKie
Angus McKie is renowned as an English science fiction illustrator, known for his detailed artwork on numerous science fiction paperback covers during the mid-1970s and 1980s. His vibrant illustrations often depict intricately designed spacecraft against colorful backdrops, contributing significantly to the visual style of the genre, as seen in his pioneering work on DC Comics’ The Dome: Ground Zero in 1998.
The Cosmic Art of Chris Foss
Chris Foss (born 1946) has been a staple in the world of science fiction art since his youth. His iconic imagery from the 1970s remains awe-inspiring, evoking the landscapes of imagination and influencing a generation of science fiction illustrators.
“The Consolation of Philosophy” by Boethius (Full Audiobook – No A.I.)
A heartfelt thank you to all who support Kallipolis radio through monetary contributions, comments, likes, or shares. My name is Ryllan, and I enjoy recording audiobooks of classic philosophical, literary, and religious texts. Your support helps with editing software and channel expenses, and if you’re interested, you can become a member for a minimal monthly fee.
“Why Are There No New Aesthetics?” (Spring 2026 Rutgers Design Lecture Series)
In this enlightening lecture at Rutgers University, artist and designer Ruby Justice Thelot discusses the conditions necessary for the emergence of new forms and explores the economic, technological, and cultural forces that inhibit their adoption in the mainstream.
Toward a Cognitive Science of Transcendence | Episode 2502 | Closer To Truth
Understanding the essence of transcendence requires innovative experiments to reveal its characteristics. What defines transcendence? Tracking eye movements or brain activity can expose underlying neural responses, revealing unexpected insights.
What is Consciousness? | Episode 1302 | Closer To Truth
Consciousness remains one of the most understood yet elusive concepts. It represents the inner subjective experience of sensations—such as seeing red or hearing music. This perplexing topic features interviews with notable thinkers like Simon Blackburn and Susan Greenfield.
Intro to the Philosophy of Mathematics (Ray Monk)
This introductory lecture by Ray Monk delves into the nature of mathematical truth, questioning whether mathematics is discovered or constructed. It discusses renowned philosophers’ perspectives, aiming to unravel the unique status of mathematical truths.
The Bizarre World of Japanese Stop-Motion Movies
Explore the eccentric realm of Japanese stop-motion animation. From twisted fairy tales to cyberpunk horror, these unconventional films introduce extraordinary characters and scenarios, representing some of the strangest offerings in Japanese cinema.
Aldo Tambellini’s LISTEN (2005) – Part 1
Winner of various awards, this film from Aldo Tambellini reflects on the collateral damage of war experienced during WWII. It raises the question: Why War? Told through personal lenses and poignant imagery, it critiques the horrors of conflict.
Aldo Tambellini’s LISTEN (2005) – Part 2
Werner Herzog on Klaus Kinski’s “Egomania”
In a revealing interview, Herzog recounts a memorable moment involving Klaus Kinski, highlighting the intensity of his character. While entertaining, it’s essential to acknowledge Kinski’s complex and often troubling personality as well as Herzog’s own controversial decisions in the name of art.
Excerpt from an interview with Paul Holdengräber.
Ingmar Bergman on The Seventh Seal, Wild Strawberries, and More
Melvyn Bragg interviews the esteemed filmmaker Ingmar Bergman in this insightful discussion from 1978.
Anita Berber and Sebastian Droste – Epitomes of 1920s Weimar Republic Excess – Dancing on Film
This video showcases two distinct dance sequences performed by Anita Berber, a prominent figure in Weimar cabaret culture. Each performance, taken from silent German films, encapsulates the extremes of Berber’s artistry as a performer.
Pre-Codes: Thelma Todd
Cleopatra (1917) – Newly Discovered Footage
Misirlou – Mulatar Version
In this performance, Ben from Lockruf music plays Misirlou with the Mulatar.
Lee Perry – Skanking With The Upsetter Rare Dubs 1971-1974
Th. Morley – Dances for Broken Consort, from the Concert Lessons, Book 1 (1599)
This piece is from the FIRST BOOKE OF CONSORT LESSONS, featuring diverse exquisite compositions designed for six instruments.
The Early Music Consort Of London / The Morley Consort – Two Renaissance Dance Bands (Full Album)
Featuring music from various composers, this album showcases two prominent Renaissance dance bands, directed by David Monroe.
C̲ream – W̲he̲e̲ls of F̲ire (Full Album) 1968
Autumn Leaves | 15 Legendary Versions by Jazz Masters
This playlist features 15 remarkable interpretations of the beloved jazz standard “Autumn Leaves,” showcasing the talents of numerous jazz legends. It’s perfect for enthusiasts of classic jazz.
Goree Carter – Rock Awhile (1949)
Often cited as one of the earliest rock’n’roll records, this song features a distinctive guitar intro influential on the genre.
The Alan Parsons Project – I Robot (1977) (2016 RM, MFSL UDSACD-2174)
This is the remastered version of the second album by The Alan Parsons Project, originally released in 1977.
Heroin (Velvet Underground) | A Cover Version, with an Introduction by Patti Smith
“Heroin,” a song by the Velvet Underground from their iconic debut album, is reinterpreted here, with an introduction reflecting on its significance and influence.
CODEX BURANUS: The Real Medieval CARMINA BURANA, Clemencic Consort
A detailed exploration of the thirteenth-century Codex Buranus, showcasing the poems and songs performed by wandering students across medieval Europe.
HAYMARKET SQUARE Magic Lantern Mega Rare 1968 USA CHAPARRAL Private Press Female Vox PSYCH LP £3000
This immensely rare LP by the US Psych band Haymarket Square is a must-see for collectors.
Various – Weird A Go-Go: 50’s 60’s Garage Rock Surf, Rock & Roll Beat Music Album Compilation LP
A compilation LP featuring classic garage rock and surf tracks, celebrating the vibrant sound of the 50s and 60s.
No America, No Jazz: 1956/1958 | Modern Jazz Classics: Hard Bop & Cool Jazz
A tribute to the roots of jazz, highlighting the spirited energy of the hard bop and cool jazz movements. Featured artists include legends like Miles Davis and Cannonball Adderley.
Red Garland feat. John Coltrane – All Mornin’ Long (Official Audio)
This track from the compilation album Side Steps showcases the incredible talents of jazz musicians Red Garland and John Coltrane.
Forgotten 60s Treasure: THE LORDS – Death Bells At Dawn (Rare MONO)
This rare record features an obscure group from New Jersey, known for their hypnotic and psychedelic sound.
The Beatles – Revolver (Full Album) [1966]
Thelonious Monk – 1964 – Maison de la Radio, Paris – Bootleg Remaster – HD
This remastered bootleg captures a rare live performance by Thelonious Monk at Maison De La Radio in Paris.
