Jane Campion's first, made for television. I miss films like this. So sweet and funny.

The reverse chronology comes off as gimmicky and adds very little to the film. I think it would have been better with more of a flashback structure. But it works well enough, and the film is quite sweet with some genuine moments. I'd like to think the title has a double meaning, referring also to Louise and her mother, a strong relationship that was enjoyable to watch. The production feels a little flat, but there's a terrific whimsical sequence near the end, and the performances are endearing.

Want to know the difference between White Elephant and Termite Art? Compare this to The Piano.

Definitely has that TV movie feel to it. Emma Coles as Louise does such a decent job that I'm surprised this was her only acting credit. Starting from the beginning really lost a lot of narrative punch for me since I wasn't as interested in how she got there...I would have preferred to become invested in the characters before seeing one's bad luck and misfortune. Fav scene: throwing mom's present onto the floor since we'd seen McQuade select it at the store and mom not really reacting was sad.

An ambitious, complex debut with a back-stepping chronology. I think I'll need to watch it again some day.