Balibo
In the years following the slaying of five Australian journalists on assignment in Timor in 1975, there has been some debate over the extent to which their deaths were the result of a murderous breach of the conventions guaranteeing the safety of journalists, or an unfortunate mishap resulting from crossfire between the Indonesians and Fretilin forces.
Moreover, the journalist with perhaps the highest profile of the five - Greg Shackleton - has come under some criticism over the years, from people who have alleged that he was somewhat of a thrill-seeker, and therefore irresponsible, placing himself in unnecessary danger.
Robert Connolly's version of events leans heavily toward the "Balibo Five" having been brutally murdered.
Regardless of one's own opinion on the matter, it is difficult to watch Balibo and not be deeply moved by what happened to the men involved in this tragic story. Nevertheless, one can't help but pity the civilian population who had no choice about being there.
Apparently Connolly wanted to use the original footage of Greg Shackleton's last film report, but decided instead, to let Damon Gameau (who plays Shackleton in the film), replicate the report. It's a shame, really, as the original footage is widely available and poignant to watch.
After a slightly slow start, Balibo turns into a political thriller with a keen human interest.
Anthony LaPaglia as Roger East, delivers an outstanding performance, convincingly portraying a man who has outgrown the adrenaline-rush of war correspondence but who finds himself drawn into a perilous situation because he cares about the situation he's investigating.
Lisa Gerrard's soundtrack is also highly recommended.