Review: Mr Neal is Entitled to be an Agitator (1991)

Mr Neal is Entitled to Be an Agitator, directed by Daryl Dellora, is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that chronicles the tumultuous career of Lionel Murphy, a polarising Australian High Court Justice whose progressive ideals and legal battles left an indelible mark on the nation’s judicial and social landscape. Running at 58 minutes, this docu-drama uses Murphy’s story to explore broader issues of justice, surveillance, and societal reform, making it resonate with contemporary discussions on social cohesion and cultural inclusivity in Australia.

The film’s title stems from Murphy’s 1982 High Court judgment in Neal v. The Queen, where he defended Aboriginal activist Mr. Neal, convicted for spitting at a white store owner and initially sentenced to two months’ hard labour, later increased to six months on appeal. Murphy’s ruling, paraphrasing Oscar Wilde, declared Neal “entitled to be an agitator,” framing activism as essential for societal progress. This case, vividly introduced through a re-enactment featuring Ernie Dingo as Neal, sets the tone for the documentary’s exploration of Murphy as a champion of the marginalised.

Dellora’s approach blends archival footage, interviews with notable figures like Gough Whitlam, Michael Kirby, and Ingrid Murphy, and a reflective narrative to paint Murphy as both a visionary reformer and a controversial figure. The film highlights his radical contributions, including the Family Law Act, Trade Practices Act, and a proposed Bill of Rights, which challenged Australia’s conservative legal establishment. It also delves into the final four years of Murphy’s life, marked by allegations of judicial misconduct and an intense battle to retain his High Court position amid media scrutiny and police surveillance. This framing positions Murphy as a symbol of resistance against systemic forces, encapsulated in his mantra, “Don’t let the bastards win,” as recounted by his wife, Ingrid.

The documentary’s strength lies in its ability to weave Murphy’s personal story with broader societal questions. It critiques the role of media and security surveillance in targeting prominent figures, a topic that feels strikingly relevant in 2025 amid Australia’s debates over misinformation laws and digital privacy. By showcasing Murphy’s advocacy for Indigenous rights and progressive reforms, the film aligns with current parliamentary discussions on social cohesion, particularly the push for inclusivity and addressing historical wrongs, as seen in recent MP speeches and the Welcome to Country debates. Ernie Dingo’s performance and the inclusion of voices like Jenny Hocking and Neville Wran add authenticity and emotional weight, grounding the film in Australia’s cultural and political history.

However, the documentary isn’t without flaws. Critics, as noted in Senses of Cinema, suggest it risks hagiography by presenting Murphy as a near-mythic figure, potentially oversimplifying the complexities of his controversies. The “us vs. them” narrative – pitting Murphy against a vague establishment – may alienate viewers who prefer a more nuanced examination of his alleged misbehavior. The re-enactment of the Neal case, while striking, feels slightly jarring and may not fully integrate with the documentary’s otherwise sober tone. Additionally, at 58 minutes, the film occasionally struggles to balance its ambitious scope, leaving some of Murphy’s reforms underexplored.

In the context of 2025 Australia, where social cohesion is a parliamentary flashpoint, Mr Neal is Entitled to Be an Agitator remains a powerful reminder of the role of dissent in driving progress. Murphy’s defense of Indigenous activism and his fight against surveillance resonate with ongoing debates about cultural acknowledgment and privacy laws. The film’s message – that agitators are necessary for change – echoes the calls from people such as former MP Zoe Daniel for inclusive discourse and reform. Awarded an Australian Human Rights Award, Dellora’s work is both a tribute to Murphy’s legacy and a call to question systemic power, though it could benefit from a less idealised lens.

Rating: 4/5. A poignant, if occasionally one-sided, exploration of a legal maverick whose battles remain relevant to Australia’s cultural and social challenges today.

Agitator’s Spotlight

This award-winning documentary packed out Thornbury Picture House last night, enthralling a sell-out crowd in stunning 4K. Its popularity is no surprise, and you can catch this acclaimed film through the following platforms:

• DocPlay – Available to stream via a subscription.
• Plex – The film is currently available to watch for free (ad-supported).
• Vimeo On Demand – Available to rent or purchase.