Don't Tell

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Les N Great to see an Australian version of this touchy subject. We know what is going on. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 08/12/25 Full Review David Lee K Don’t Tell is an emotionally charged and beautifully acted Australian courtroom drama based on a true story. It follows the harrowing journey of a young woman who takes on a Catholic private school after suffering abuse, leading to a landmark legal case. The film’s greatest strength lies in its honesty. It doesn’t shy away from difficult truths. Sara West delivers a deeply moving performance as the protagonist, portraying both vulnerability and resilience with striking authenticity. Aden Young and Rachel Griffiths add depth and nuance, ensuring the legal and emotional stakes feel real and urgent. The cinematography captures the small-town setting with a realism that emotionally grounds the story. The script is thoughtful and respectful, balancing the legal proceedings with poignant moments of humanity. While Don’t Tell may not always be very dramatic, it’s precisely that restraint that makes it very affecting. The film will linger with you, not just for its heartbreaking subject matter, but for its celebration of courage in the human spirit. This is an important and moving Australian film that deserves to be seen! Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 08/12/25 Full Review Audience Member It's quite a shame this Australian film has limited release in cinemas & most likely will be missed by many Australians but it is an important & terrific drama. The story of Lynda an 11 year old girl who is sexually assaulted by her teacher at her Toowoomba Prep School & everything is ignored & swept under the rug. The film follows her trial & struggle for justice & recognition for what happened to her. Although a low key film performances where good & the film was genuinely engaging throughout. Hopefully more Aussie's will get behind this film. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/31/23 Full Review Audience Member This movie is a must see. It focuses on Lyndal, the main character, and the longterm effects of her abuse, rather than sensationalising the abuse itself or the pedophile who perpetrated the abuse. The story is told with sensitivity and compassion. Sara West, who plays Lyndal, is brilliant in what would have been a demanding role. Aden Young is good as Lyndal’s lawyer and Jack Thompson does a reasonable job as the barrister. I found this movie to be deeply moving and we all need to celebrate the courage that people, like Lyndal, demonstrate in surviving the incredible evil that is child abuse. I really encourage you to see this move. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 02/27/23 Full Review Audience Member Don't Tell: Sara West gives an Oscar-winning performance as Lyndal who was sexually abused when she was 11 years old by her housemaster at a boarding school in Toowoomba, Australia. She courageously brings an action for damages against the Anglican Church in 2001. Clearly suffering from PTSD, this 22-year-old ploughed on refusing to compromise. Professional film reviewers have suggested the film is 'static', 'polite', 'lacking sizzle', 'too cautious' and 'earnest'. I disagree. There was no need for flamboyance or extravagant camera angles. Lyndal's story was the focus point and Tori Garrett, the director, obviously understood that. There was anger simmering below the surface, glances between the characters that needed no words. There were attempts of holding back incriminating evidence by the school authorities and pressure to bully the plaintive into accepting piddling damages. Lyndal stood firm but justice can be elusive and the jury's verdict unpredictable. The pacing was just right, the editing unobtrusive, the acting excellent and the director's decisions spot on. The movie held my attention to the very last frame. 5 stars from me. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 02/15/23 Full Review Read all reviews

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