Characters

The film Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002) directed by Phillip Noyce focuses on the Stolen Generations in Australia. It tells the story of three Aboriginal girls of mixed-race background who are forcibly taken from their community in Jigalong and sent to a governmental institution at Moore River. This is done so that they can be made to assimilate and integrate into white society.

Molly Craig is the main character and one of the three Aboriginal girls at the center of the story. She is portrayed as courageous, determined, and resourceful. Molly takes the lead in planning and executing the escape from the Moore River Native Settlement, as she is determined to find her way back home and reunite with her family.

Another important character is A. O. Neville. He is the Chief Protector of Aborigines in Western Australia. He is a government official responsible for enforcing assimilation policies and removing Aboriginal children from their families. Neville is portrayed as a complex character, driven by a misguided sense of paternalism and a belief in the benefits of assimilation.

Other important characters include Molly’s younger half-sister, Daisy, and their cousin Gracie, who also escape from Moore River with Molly. Daisy is depicted as kind-hearted and innocent. She looks up to Molly and relies on her guidance during their journey. Gracie similarly relies on Molly, though, unlike Daisy, she constantly questions and challenges Molly’s leadership and abilities.

Other Aboriginal characters also play significant roles. The tracker Moodoo is required to follow the girls on their journey and attempt to catch them. Molly’s mother Maude has faith in the girls’ ability to return home and resists the authorities. Nina, one of the oldest girls at Moore River, helps guide Molly in her first days at Moore River.

Full characterizations can be found in the following pages.

Excerpt from the study guide: