Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975) (1998 director's cut)

In 1900 Victorian Australia several people vanish without a trace at Hanging Rock. Adapted from a popular mystery novel of the day. It was one of the first Aussie films to be distributed internationally and enjoying box office success. It was re released to both screen and DVD in 1998. I saw the director's cut, which surprisingly cuts 7 minutes from the original release. The cinematography is respectable as is the overall feel of of the film. For the first 20 minutes or so I was hopeful that I had found a hidden gem, but it was quickly dashed by B movie players and canned sound. Dialogue is wooden in places, and the sudden inexplicable group naps that occur, I guess as a way to measure time, doesn't jibe with the distances later covered rapidly. They try to suggest a supernatural element to the story on the back half (along with accompanying music and camera work) that was just too hard a sell. But if mid 70's made for TV style suits your fancy, here is a taste from down under. If nothing else its a bit of cinema history. Another ketchup and bologna sandwich on white bread.