Australian Rules Representations of Groups in Australia Essay Example

he acts foolish during a post-game discussion. However, in the next scene, he is seen casually burning a notice in the street, swearing and not caring who was there, which also leads viewers to label him as a rebel due to his attire and actions. In the case of Gary's dad Bob Black, viewers are initially concerned by Gary's hesitation around him but are relieved when he commends Gary for his performance in the game.

Bob Black turns out to be true to his first impression, as Gary's abusive alcoholic father's true nature is exposed later in the film. Australian Rules uses Australian linguistic styles as a means of distinguishing itself from the style of English culture. This is achieved mainly through the use of Australian slang and Aboriginal vernacular, with the character of football coach "Arks" serving as a vivid example. Arks is known for his repeated utterances of "if I've arks youse once, I've arks youse a thousand times" and his tendency to scream at players in order to motivate them, conforming to the social archetype of the shouting football coach. Due to their segregation from mainstream society, the Aboriginal characters in the film have developed their own unique form of social discourse through their adapted slang, including phrases like "lucken ya".

Australian Rules utilizes language as a significant tool for characterisation, which can lead to Gary modifying his speech around Aboriginal people to fit in with their discourse, frustrating others. The script employs Pickles' use of profanity and racism in his speech to highlight his rebellious character stereotype. Furthermore, the predominantly white male society in Australian Rules follows traditional gender representations and restricts

individuals to their stereotypical roles.

The movie depicts working class, rugged men who rely on violence and view the pub as the heart of the town. The pub serves as a post-football game ritual where all men gather to drink in a typical working class fashion. In the movie, white men are the only ones seen working in a traditional provider role for the women. Unfortunately, the women conform to stereotypical roles and are shown performing household chores such as cooking, cleaning and even casually chatting about cleaning.

Despite the denigrating perspective towards women in the film, the two main female characters demonstrate an intelligence level equal to, or greater than, any man in the town. In fact, it is Gary's mother, Liz, who strategically assists Gary in winning the football game by providing him with crucial advice. Additionally, Clarence exhibits intelligence during her deep and meaningful conversation with Gary, showcasing her knowledge of poetry and space. Through their actions, they contest and challenge the traditional portrayal of women. Australian Rules employs many filming conventions in its portrayal of small town attitudes and shines a light on hidden racial tensions, as mirrored by Pretty's character, and everyday domestic violence within society.

Australian Rules employs numerous codes and conventions to depict various themes, including the portrayal of societal groups or stereotypes. The film simultaneously affirms and challenges the societal norms associated with these groups.