Peter Weir Overview

Peter Weir is one of the most prominent Australian film directors. Born outside Sydney, Weir belonged to the 'Australian New Wave,' composed of directors who chose to work within their often artistically and culturally marginalized continent [1]. Weir's first breakthrough into... [more]

Peter Weir is one of the most prominent Australian film directors. Born outside Sydney, Weir belonged to the 'Australian New Wave,' composed of directors who chose to work within their often artistically and culturally marginalized continent [1]. Weir's first breakthrough into the international film community came with 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' (1975), an ambiguous mystery surrounding the disappearance of schoolgirls on a picnic at the turn of the twentieth century. 'The Last Wave' (1977) continued in this vein, exploring mood and mise-en-scene through supernatural premonitions connecting European and Aboriginal cultures. 'Gallipoli' (1981) featured a young Mel Gibson in an interpersonal retelling of the infamous World War battle. After these Australian classics, Weir also moved to international settings, making the successful 'Dead Poets Society' (1989), a story of an inspirational teacher's influence over his students; in 1998 'The Truman Show' became his most successful, mainstream movie to date. Weir worked with Australian actor Russell Crowe in 'Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World' (2003). Weir's unique viewpoint, expansive, dangerous scenarios, intense scores to his films, and attention to affective detail mark his work. He has directed a number of other films not mentioned in this bio and continues the same work today. An excellent catalog of his work on the web can be found at http://www.peterweircave.com/main.html. Avatar image found at this website. 1. http://www.tipjar.com/dan/peterweir.htm. Interview by Dan Lybarger, orig. appeared in June 4-10, 1998 issue of Pitch Weekly. [show less]