Bastardy is a moving documentary that looks at the incredible life of one of Melbourne's forgotten treasures. In the process, the film tells a fascinating story of hardship, dignity and the resilience of the human spirit.

The documentary covers a six year span in the life of Aboriginal elder, cat burglar and thespian Jack Charles. The documentary follows Jack through his past as an actor - starring in such films as The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith - through to his life on the street and the lengths that he must go to survive. The honesty and dignity displayed by Jack as he muses on his life is emotionally powerful and handled with incredible respect by the film makers.

Jack‘s life has been heart-achingly difficult, from being a member of the Stolen Generation to the difficulties he faced being a gay man in the 1960s to his current struggles with drug addiction. The film serves as a brilliant reminder of the potential of the medium to allow an audience to empathise with the struggles of fellow citizens.

The director, Amiel Courntin-Wilson takes a fly on the wall approach and presents Jack in all his splendour, warts and all. It also serves as a powerful insight into the adversity faced by too many fellow Melbournians living on the streets.

Jack comes across as a wonderfully charming, intelligent and strong individual. This is where the film triumphs as Courntin-Wilson allows Jack to tell his own story and in doing so, creates what feels simply like a rich and engaging conversation.

- Review by Sebastian Cordoba

Bastardy shows at 9.30pm on Saturday, August 2 at Greater Union and at 3.15pm on Thursday, August 7 at ACMI.
Check out the MIFF website for more info.