eVideo

English

Title from title frames.

Originally produced by National Film and Sound Archive of Australia in 2001.

This off-beat series follows the exploits of the Bush mechanics, a group of engaging Aboriginal characters who travel through central Australia. In each episode, the Bush Mechanics who come from the remote Warlpiri community of Yuendumu are presented with a new set of challenges - catching a car thief, getting a nephew out of jail, racing to an outback rock concert and travelling thousands of miles to gather pearl shells for a rainmaking ceremony. As they travel through the desert in their clapped-out vehicles, they solve multiple car problems with wacky and inventive bush repair techniques. Featured characters include Jack Jakamarra, an Aboriginal elder who introduces the episodes with recollections of his first strange encounters with white people and their ways, and Jupurrula, the magic mechanic who appears out of nowhere to help the Bush mechanics when they get into real car trouble. A blend of documentary and drama, each of the four episodes illuminates a particular aspect of Warlpiri life from gathering bush tucker and living in a humpy to football and rock and roll. Combining adventure, magic realism and a distinctive brand of indigenous humour, the series provides a unique insight into both contemporary and traditional Aboriginal culture. A Film Australia National Interest Program in association with Warlpiri Media Association Inc. Produced with the assistance of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 2011 National Film and Sound Archive of Australia. Executive Producer: Stefan Moore. Producer: Jeni McMahon. Director: David Batty (Director), Francis Jupurrula Kelly (Co-Director). Writer: David Batty. DOP/Cinematographer: David Batty. Principal Cast: Steven Jupurrula Morton, Errol Jupurrula Nelson, Simeon Jupurrula Ross, Junior Jupurrula Wilson, Randall Jupurrula Wilson.

Mode of access: World Wide Web.