Tracks

Based on the true story of Robyn Davidson and her solo trek across the desert of Australia. Mia Wasikowska plays Robyn and we follow her from nearly the beginning of her decision making process to embark on the trip, including over a year of preparation. She has to apprentice with a couple of camel farmers in order learn how to handle the animals and how to use them since they will be her primary lifeline on this massive trek. She also has her dog who follows her all along. The trek portion of the story is remarkably tension free, with the plot conflict coming from the relationship between Robyn and her financial sponsor (National Geographic) and their photographer. Somehow, the solo trek must include this photographer popping up at regular intervals to document the trip. It turns out to a love/hate relationship as Robyn grapples with her desire to be solitary and simultaneously her loneliness. In many ways this is a self discovery film that lets the self discovery lie subtly in the background. Afterwards, I wondered what was learned, what was appreciated, what personal growth took place? And surprisingly, my anticipation for a landscape film was only moderately satisfied. Big sweeping vistas and the context of the Australian desert did not overwhelm me, or awe me with its vast scope. Maybe this was the filming, I don't know. So while this was entertaining and I found myself enjoying the film, both in real time and in memory, it was not complete. It left me wanting more. Definitely see it. But don't expect to love it.
4 stars (out of 5)