The Skin of Others

Douglas Grant (c. 1885–1951) was an Aboriginal man who became widely known in his own lifetime: an intellectual, a journalist, a soldier in the First World War, a reader of Shakespeare and a bagpipe player who could hold a convincing Scottish accent. His path ran from Australia to Britain and Europe and back, crossing those of Henry Lawson and Archduke Franz Ferdinand along the way. Balang Tom E. Lewis retraces that life in reflections by turns thoughtful and playful, and through it the longer history of colonial Australia and its relationship with First Nations people.

Directed by Tom Murray, The Skin of Others leans on a strong ensemble — Tom E. Lewis — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2020.