Australian
Screen

an NFSA website

Small Treasures (1995)

play
clip
  • 1
  • 2
The birth class

This clip chosen to be PG

Clip description

Jane (voiced by Rachel Griffiths) appraises the birth class with the eye of an intelligent, detached observer; the gossiping mothers-to-be, their partners and the patronising teacher all seem a bit ridiculous. But Jane is not without self-ridicule.

Curator’s notes

In contrast to the lush beauty of the sea, the interior scene of the birth class is painted in bland tones to match its participants. Jane’s detached and acute observation indicates that she doesn’t belong in this suburban, feel-good scene of expectant mothers. Illuminated with wry humour, the scene ends with a weary groan from Jane.