Wide Open Sky is a heartwarming and inspirational film that follows the journey of children from remote communities in Australiaâs outback who participate in a unique music program that aims to broaden their horizons and connect them with the broader world. The film begins by introducing us to the music programâs founder and director, Mrs. Webb, a kind and passionate teacher who believes in the transformative power of music education. We then meet a diverse group of children who are auditioning for the program, including Kyhnan and Mack, two boys from different backgrounds who share a love for music.
Kyhnan is a shy and introverted boy from a remote Indigenous community who has just moved to a new town. He is struggling to adjust to his new surroundings and feels disconnected from his cultural identity. However, he finds solace in music and is excited about the opportunity to join Mrs. Webbâs program.
Mack, on the other hand, is a confident and outgoing boy from a farming family who loves to sing and play guitar. He is excited about the prospect of performing on stage and dreams of becoming a famous musician one day.
As the children begin their music rehearsals, we see how the program is not just about learning to play instruments and sing, but also about building confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of community. The children are encouraged to express themselves creatively and emotionally through music, which helps them overcome their personal struggles and connect with each other in a meaningful way.
We also get an insight into the challenges faced by rural communities in Australia, such as limited access to education and opportunities, lack of funding for arts programs, and the impact of droughts and isolation on mental health.
The film features several poignant moments, such as when Kyhnan opens up about his fears and insecurities during a music therapy session, or when the children perform a moving rendition of a traditional Indigenous song at a community event. We also see the childrenâs excitement and nerves as they prepare for their big performance at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, one of the biggest music events in Australia.
Overall, Wide Open Sky is a beautiful and uplifting film that celebrates the power of music and the resilience of rural communities. It reminds us that creativity and self-expression are essential for our well-being, and that everyone deserves access to quality education and opportunities regardless of their background or location. It is a film that will leave you inspired and moved, and it is a must-watch for anyone who loves music and believes in the potential of young people.
Wide Open Sky is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.
