The Matilda Candidate

Australians are part of the British Commonwealth, and Elizabeth II, Queen of Great Britain, is their queen as well. But not everyone is happy with this situation. Experienced filmmaker and confirmed anti-monarchist Curtis Levy decides to run in the parliamentary elections. His goal is to elevate the folksong "Waltzing Matilda" to the status of national anthem of an independent Australia. This song is a popular ditty from 1895 about a hobo with a knapsack, or "Matilda." It is commonly held to be the unofficial Australian national anthem -- or at least, everyone whom Levy speaks to confirms this. With a wry sense of humor, the director documents his election campaign and reflects on the issues underlying his mission. Why, for example, do white Australians seem to have so little interest in independence? "Perhaps they think that their allegiance to the British crown gives a certain legitimacy to their occupation of this country," Levy speculates. During the campaign month, he actively lobbies for votes. His bizarre campaign ideas come to life as animation during semi-irritable interludes with his campaign manager Jo, who is as much in favor of the queen as Levy is against her. Meanwhile, Levy examines what "Waltzing Matilda" means to various kinds of Australians. This is a portrait of a fragile Australian national identity.