Womenvision: Women and the moving image in Australia edited by Lisa French

Abstract

Like its precursor, <i>Womenvision</i> is a diverse, wide-ranging collection of essays on Australian women behind and in front of the camera (and, today, the computer). This diversity lies in the range of topics covered and the variety of approaches and writing styles employed. All forms of moving image production are covered – from feature films and television to short films, documentaries, animation, computer games and dance films. The writers include industry practitioners, critics, activists, board members, teachers and researchers, both new to the field and established authorities. Indeed, some contributors wear several hats in their careers, combining their own experience as filmmakers with research and teaching or advocacy. Their writings range from historical surveys to thematic analyses of recent films by Australian women; from in-depth studies of Australian auteurs (Monica Pellizzari; Ann Turner; Tracey Moffatt) and single texts (Clara Law's <i>Floating Life</i> (Australia 1996); Jane Campion's <i>The Piano</i> (Australia/France/New Zealand 1993)) to deeply affecting personal accounts and reflections on women's film-making practice. This is a collection that will appeal to anyone interested in contemporary Australian cinema and/or women's moving image production, whether working in the industry or in academia.