Film Response of Muriel's Wedding

Further evidence of their amity is shown in the scene when Ronda is discovered to have cancer and is confined to a wheelchair. A close up of Ronda’s twisted foot is shown, signifying her physical and internal struggle against her condition. In an effort to comfort her friend, Muriel assures Ronda that she will walk again and that because of Ronda, Muriel’s life ‘is as good as an ABBA song.’ where ABBA songs have a connotation of happiness and fulfilment. At this point, the viewer is positioned to sympathize with Ronda and at the same time marvel at Muriel’s sudden wisdom.

What sets this film apart from some of the other Australian movies is that it depicts the true nature of mateship, where the bond between Muriel and Rhonda can be broken, but can also be reformed. In the final scene, Muriel and Ronda are reunited from their previous dispute and took a taxi away from Porpoise Spit. Their ecstatic facial expression combined with natural lighting and the cheerful tune of ‘Dancing Queen’ attributes to an optimistic outlook to their future.

On the contrary, an example of superficial friendship is represented in the case of Bill and his associates, where Bill uses his political power over his acquaintances to settle crises involving his family.

This is evident in the scenes where Muriel is arrested for stealing the dress and Betty for shoplifting the shoes. Bill is often shot in a red colour filter and at a low camera angle in order to emphasize his powerful status. His expedient attitude towards his relationships can be reflected in his role of being the crooked politician and the unfaithful husband.

In conclusion, through several events in the film as well as the use of film techniques, the characters in the film have successfully demonstrated the value of mateship, a value that is strongly associated with the Australian identity.