The director of the film is a Melbourne artist who worked in television and doesn't usually make narrative drama. The film was shot on 16mm at video speed for video release, but was acquired by channel 9 in Australia and screened first on TV on Christmas eve 1990. It has been on television in both English and non English-speaking countries.
Based on the Opera 'Cavalera Rusticana' it presents an 'unauthorized' take on the story of immigrant experience in Australia. The ensemble cast, although not necessarily Sicilian, brings an authentic feel to the story. David Stratton, noted Australian film critic, recommended a 'modest theatrical release' in a review in Encore in 1990, but as noted it was shot at video speed and framed for the small screen. Director and Editor had contracts to make a video.
