This collection investigates the creative processes and professional trajectories of five prominent Australian film directors to understand the development of the national cinematic identity. Sue Mathews, an experienced film critic and writer, utilizes a series of structured interviews to extract insights from these filmmakers. The book serves as a primary source document, capturing the perspectives of directors who shaped the Australian film industry during a pivotal era of growth and international recognition.

Critics and film scholars frequently cite this work as a valuable primary resource for understanding the aesthetic and logistical concerns of Australian directors during the period. Readers note that the prose is accessible and provides a direct, unvarnished look at the realities of the local film industry.