Boy Round the Corner

Boy Round the Corner

Company type	Television film
Industry	Television, Film
Founded	1962
Headquarters	Australia
Products	Television drama

Boy Round the Corner is an Australian film that was transmitted live on ABC in 1962. Although the narrative is set in Sydney, the production took place in Melbourne. This work emerged during a brief period when Australian television drama was infrequently produced. The current archival status remains uncertain, largely due to the common practice of wiping recordings during that time.

Plot

Gerry Lacey, whose father is a shoemaker, tries to hijack a taxi but causes an accident that kills the driver and leaves him injured. Seeking shelter, he turns to Nev Hallors, who owns a café in Erskineville and treats Gerry and his sister Sue as part of his family. Shannon is the brother of the deceased taxi driver, while Carrie is Gerry’s girlfriend from a higher social class.

Cast

• Paul Karo portraying Gerry Lacey
• Annette Andre as Carrie
• Keith Eden in the role of Nev Hallors
• Norman Kaye playing Shannon
• Fay Kelton as Sue
• Fred Parslow
• Roma Johnston

Production

The script was penned by Greg Bunbury, known primarily for his short stories, and marked the first of six television plays written by Australian authors produced by ABC in 1962. Although the story takes place in Sydney’s industrial western suburbs, filming occurred in Melbourne. Director Chris Muir conducted research by visiting cafés located in Melbourne’s industrial neighborhoods. Annette Andre, who had previously collaborated with Muir on Martine, made her final appearance on Australian television before relocating to England.

Reception

The Sydney Morning Herald offered a mixed critique, recognizing moments of strength and an authentic representation of Erskineville and its community, but criticized the play for lacking dramatic momentum and balance. The review pointed out stereotypical characters such as the café owner, a trusting sixteen-year-old girl, a society girl with a strong attitude, her superficial boyfriend, and three middle-aged men. The core conflict centers on the girl’s brother who suffers injuries from a fatal taxi collision. The production’s primary merit was its heartfelt depiction of sibling reliance, supported by compelling performances from Fay Kelton and Paul Karo. Christopher Muir’s meticulous direction and Cass van Puffelen’s set designs received commendation; however, some aspects of the visual design were considered superfluous.

External links

• Boy Round the Corner at AustLit