“I want to know: What happened?” - Rachel Perkins talks 'Jasper Jones'

The director and writer of the film adaptation of 'Jasper Jones' join us to talk about the quiet activism within the '60s-set film.

'Jasper Jones' Source: Madman Films

Few Australian films have such well-known source material as Jasper Jones. Craig Silvey has adapted his own best-seller for the screen, and director Rachel Perkins brings to life the story of a summertime mystery in a gossipy WA town. Troubled teen Jasper Jones is lumbered with the tag of troublemaker, so when a tragedy strikes, he knows he'll get the blame. For reasons known only to himself, Jasper seeks out the help of local bookworm Charlie, to help solve the mystery and right past wrongs.

When the film opened in Australia, Perkins and Silvey stopped by The Playlist to talk about the "gothic qualities" of the novel, and how it adapted to the screen. The 1960s-set summer in regional Australia has a significant impact on Charlie's worldview, and leads him to empathise with the kid he'd dismissed as an outcast. There's a quiet activism in the story, which appeals to Perkins' sensibilities.

Watch 'Jasper Jones'

Tuesday 5 July, 9:35pm on SBS World Movies / Now streaming at SBS On Demand

Australia, 2017

Genre: Mystery, Thriller

Language: English

Director: Rachel Perkins

Starring: Aaron L. McGrath, Levi Miller, Angourie Rice, Toni Collette, Hugo Weaving, Matthew Nable, Daniel Wyllie, Myles Pollard, Susan Prior, Wilson Moore, Ferdinand Hoang