Indigenous Australian filmmaker Ivan Sen is the definition of an auteur. As a writer, director, cinematographer, editor and composer, he imbues his films with a personal touch. Goldstone is his new film, a sequel to his well received 2013 crime thriller Mystery Road.
Unhinged following Mystery Road, Detective Jay Swan (Aaron Pedersen) is on a missing persons case, leading him to the small town of Goldstone. Crossing paths with local cop Josh (Alex Russell), his investigations soon reveal a deeper thread of corruption.
Like its predecessor, Goldstone is extremely slow burn. After a promising start, it slows down to a languid pace, which lacks engagement. There are excellent parts, with effective exploration of the landscape which Sen captures in expansive beauty, and the climax is expertly directed. Furthermore the themes he explores are strong, such as corporate greed/corruption, racism and Indigenous mythology. However, it doesn't save the film from immense monotony.
The cast features some of the best Australian talent, with Jacki Weaver, David Wenham and David Gulpilil bring their (underused) best. Aaron Pedersen uncovers greater depths to Detective Swan in an overall grittier performance. It's a shame the film also rests on Alex Russell, who gives an expressionless performance.
Goldstone is an acquired taste, which should impress Mystery Road fans, but overall proves a slog to watch.
