State of Shock 1989
David Bradbury's gripping documentary State of Shock (1989) immerses viewers in a pivotal moment of Australian legal history, centering on the 1981 murder trial of Alwyn Peter.
Director: David Bradbury
Frequently Asked Questions
What is State of Shock (1989) about?
State of Shock examines the 1981 trial of Alwyn Peter, an Aboriginal man whose defense argued that standard murder charges were incompatible with the cultural background of dispossessed, semi-tribal Indigenous Australians. The documentary dissects the case's legal and social implications, offering a revealing look at systemic bias in Australia's justice system.
Who directed State of Shock?
State of Shock was directed by David Bradbury, a filmmaker known for his socially conscious documentaries that tackle justice and human rights issues.
Who stars in State of Shock?
Cast details for State of Shock are not publicly listed.
Is State of Shock (1989) worth watching?
As an unrated documentary, State of Shock delivers a powerful, thought-provoking narrative rooted in real events. Its exploration of legal injustice and cultural struggle makes it a compelling watch for fans of historical documentaries and social justice films.
How long is State of Shock?
State of Shock has a runtime of 58 minutes.
State of Shock (1989): Australia's Legal Landmark in Documentary Form — Full Movie Info
David Bradbury's gripping documentary State of Shock (1989) immerses viewers in a pivotal moment of Australian legal history, centering on the 1981 murder trial of Alwyn Peter. The film explores how the defense successfully challenged murder and manslaughter charges against dispossessed, semi-tribal Aborigines, sparking national conversations about justice and systemic inequities. With its raw, unflinching portrayal of cultural and legal tensions, State of Shock (1989) blends historical gravity with intimate storytelling, revealing the human stories behind the headlines. Bradbury's direction lends the documentary a stark, urgent atmosphere, highlighting the clash between colonial legal frameworks and Indigenous worldviews.
State of Shock stands as a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking to expose societal fractures and provoke thought. The film's themes of displacement, cultural identity, and the limits of justice resonate decades later, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in Australian history or social justice. Its concise runtime of 58 minutes ensures a tightly focused narrative that doesn't lose sight of its compelling real-life subject.