Something of the Times

While the film reconstructs the life of white buffalo hunters and the Aboriginal labour involved, it doesn't explicitly state a critical stance. However, by presenting these elements side-by-side and using archival evidence, it invites viewers to form their own interpretations of this historical period and its social dynamics.

Information regarding current streaming availability or broadcast schedules for 'Something of the Times' in Australia is not provided. Audiences interested in viewing this historical documentary may need to consult Australian film archives, specialist streaming platforms focusing on documentaries, or check local television programming guides.

Based on its description, 'Something of the Times' functions as a documentary. It utilises archival photographs and the testimony of a former participant, Tom Cole, to reconstruct historical events and lives, rather than presenting a fictionalised narrative with actors.

The film centres on the complex interplay between white buffalo hunters and the Aboriginal labour that was essential to their industry in the remote Northern Territory wetlands of the 1930s. It aims to reconstruct and examine this historical dynamic, shedding light on a lesser-discussed aspect of early 20th-century Australian life.

Archival photographs form the backbone of 'Something of the Times'. These images are not merely illustrative; they are instrumental in reconstructing the lives of the white buffalo hunters and the Aboriginal workers who supported them. The film uses these visual remnants to bring a largely forgotten past to life.

Tom Cole is a former white buffalo hunter who features prominently in 'Something of the Times'. He revisits the very hunting camps where he once worked, offering firsthand accounts and insights into the trade. His presence provides a personal and historical anchor, connecting the archival material to lived experience.

The film delves into the 1930s, specifically focusing on the era of white buffalo hunters and the crucial, often overlooked, Aboriginal labour that sustained their operations. It paints a picture of life in the remote wetlands of the Northern Territory during this significant period, offering a unique perspective on a chapter of Australian history.