Tomorrow When the War Began

This film is thought provoking as the book was. I like John Marsdon's writing because he doesn't treat the audience to a clearly defined judgement, yet places us in predicament's through the protagonists. Reading the book with year 9 classes, the debates and discussions provoked by this story are no stranger to me. That is the value of it for teenagers (and readers in general) I believe. It asks you to question your reality or perspective of how you fit in the world.

I loved the shot of Ellie in front of the mural of the Brittish invasion of Australia. I was pleased Corrie was reading an Australian classic and the line about films not being as good as books. I've read a number of reviews since seeing the film and like my classrooms there is debate about the story. Here are a few:

Luke Buckmaster (also read the comments)

Beyond Hollywood

Phillipa Hawker

Tropfest for Kids

If you're under 15 and aspire to be a short film maker, what are you waiting for? Quickly go to TropJr, read all the details and get started. Go on, move it, why are you still reading this?

Do Something Real

The Age: Rich Pickings spreads the news of this great YouTube clip that highlights the divide in the world between the haves and the have nots.

Teenagers on Film

Watching "Little Miss Sunshine" tonight, the teenage son enters, Andy says "Why are there no pleasant teenagers in films?"

Fair comment. They are not represented well in the media. Teenagers that is. It is not accurate. Teenagers are great and I am obviously not one of them when I say that. Why is this? The stereotype of teenagers is not fair.