Hammers over the Anvil (1991)

38% of users liked it
(609 ratings)

This drama concerns a small period in the life of its central figure, Alan Marshall (Alexander Outhred), a young man living in rural Australia in 1910, who was crippled by polio years before. Because he hasn't the strength or coordination to perform most chores and enter fully into the life of his… More This drama concerns a small period in the life of its central figure, Alan Marshall (Alexander Outhred), a young man living in rural Australia in 1910, who was crippled by polio years before. Because he hasn't the strength or coordination to perform most chores and enter fully into the life of his family and friends, much that he experiences comes to him vicariously. In the story, he witnesses many dramatic events happening to others. Several of them concern the romantic trials and tribulations of the women and men he knows. However, the story which concerns him the most is somewhat sad: despite the best efforts of his father, Alan is unable to ride a horse. The screenplay of the movie is based on a collection of Marshall's autobiographical stories. ~ Clarke Fountain, Rovi

Rating, Runtime: PG, 1 hr. 41 min.
Directed By: Ann Turner
Genres: Art House & International, Drama

In Theaters: Jan 1, 1991 Wide
On DVD: Dec 5, 2000

Critic Reviews

Robert Roten, Laramie Movie Scope
If you are going to make slow-paced film, why not make it depressing as well?

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Cast

Charlotte Rampling
as Grace McAlister
Russell Crowe
as East Driscoll
Frankie J. Holden
as Bushman

Amanda Douge
as Nellie Bolster
Frank Gallacher
as Mr. Thomas
John Lee
as McAlister

See full cast