Director's Spotlight
Archivist John
Senior Editor

Director's Spotlight: Australia
A Deep Dive into the 1926 Vision of Paulette McDonagh
Few works in Australia cinema carry the same weight as Those Who Love, especially regarding the technical innovation that Paulette McDonagh introduced to the Romance format. Subverting the expectations of the typical 1926 audience, it bridges the gap between traditional Romance and contemporary vision.
In Those Who Love, Paulette McDonagh pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
In this work, Paulette McDonagh explores the intersection of Romance and Australia cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that Those Who Love remains a relevant topic of study for Romance enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Paulette McDonagh's style and the core Romance narrative.
Barry Manton is a rich heir who is constantly undermined by his father, who sees him as a gadabout. He even goes to the extent of paying his girlfriend to leave him. It seems he must remain a bachelor if he is to receive his inheritance. He meets Lola, a beautiful and thoughtful woman who enriches his life and makes him think about his actions. They soon marry. Meanwhile, Barry's father feels remorse for banishing his son, and invites him back into his life. Lola is fearful of meeting Barry's father for the first time, and convinced that Barry will not get his rightful inheritance, selflessly leaves him. Years later, they meet again in a hospital where Lola is a nurse - in order to support Peter, the child Barry never knew they had.
Decades after its release, Those Who Love remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Paulette McDonagh's status as a master of the craft in Australia and beyond.