The House-Opening (1980)

When Geraldine Kawanka’s husband died, she and her children left their house at Aurukun on Cape York Peninsula. In earlier times a bark house would have been burnt, but today a ‘house-opening’ ceremony — creatively mingling Aboriginal, Torres Strait and European elements — has evolved to deal with death in the midst of new living patterns. Although sometimes suggesting a party, its underlying purpose is serious. This film records the opening of the house and Geraldine’s feelings about it in her informative and personal commentary.

Director: Judith MacDougall
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 42 min
Release Date:
Country: Australia
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Judith MacDougall
More Films in Genre: Documentary

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The House-Opening about?
When Geraldine Kawanka’s husband died, she and her children left their house at Aurukun on Cape York Peninsula. In earlier times a bark house would have been burnt, but today a ‘house-opening’ ceremony — creatively mingling Aboriginal, Torres Strait and European elements — has evolved to deal with death in the midst of new living patterns. Although sometimes suggesting a party, its underlying purpose is serious. This film records the opening of the house and Geraldine’s feelings about it in her informative and personal commentary.
Who directed The House-Opening?
The House-Opening was directed by Judith MacDougall.
How long is The House-Opening?
The House-Opening has a runtime of 42m (42 minutes).
What genre is The House-Opening?
The House-Opening is a Documentary film.
Where was The House-Opening produced?
The House-Opening was produced in Australia.