In 1930s Australia, Anglican clergyman Anthony Campion and his prim wife, Estella, are asked to visit noted painter Norman Lindsay, whose planned contribution to an international art exhibit is considered blasphemous. While Campion and Lindsay debate, Estella finds herself drawn to the three beautiful models sitting for the painter's current work, freethinking Sheela, sensual Pru and virginal Giddy.
Acting
Sam Neill's devilish painter steals every scene he's in.
Cinematography
Golden Australian light makes nudity look like classical painting.
Costume
Estella's buttoned-up tweed vs. the models' glorious nothing.
Director
John Duigan
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Based on real artist Norman Lindsay, whose actual paintings caused similar scandals in 1930s Australia. His studio still exists as a museum.
Elle Macpherson was already 'The Body'—this film weaponized that fame for maximum 'respectable nudity' tension. Portia de Rossi's first film role too.
AU
