Farewell to David Stratton, A Life in Film
David Stratton, one of the most respected voices in Australian film criticism, has passed away at the age of 85. His death was confirmed by his family on Thursday afternoon, who shared that he died peacefully in a hospital near his home in the Blue Mountains. The statement described him as a man whose passion for cinema, dedication to Australian film, and generous spirit left a lasting mark on countless lives. He was not only a revered critic but also a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
For decades, Stratton was a familiar face on Australian television, most notably as co-host with Margaret Pomeranz on The Movie Show and later At the Movies . Their on-screen partnership spanned 28 years and became a fixture in Australian cultural life, loved for its insightful reviews, lively debates, and occasional friendly disagreements. Viewers often enjoyed the contrast between Stratton’s refined preference for international and arthouse cinema and Pomeranz’s openness to mainstream blockbusters. Their exchanges—sometimes witty, sometimes sharp—helped make film criticism both accessible and entertaining.
Stratton’s life in film began long before television. Born in Trowbridge, England, in 1939, he developed his love for cinema during World War II, when his grandmother would take him to the movies almost daily. That early habit turned into a lifelong calling—he reportedly watched at least one new film a day and had seen more than 25,000 films over his lifetime. Moving to Australia in 1963, he soon immersed himself in the local film scene, becoming director of the Sydney Film Festival from 1966 to 1983. This role cemented his place in the industry and began his mission of championing Australian cinema on the world stage.
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His career included stints writing for The Australian and Variety , serving on prestigious international film juries, and receiving numerous awards and honors. In 2001, France appointed him a Commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for his services to French cinema. Back home, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the Australian Film Institute and made a Member of the Order of Australia.
Even after his television career wound down in 2014, Stratton continued sharing his love of film through documentaries, books, and guest appearances. His autobiography, memorably titled I Peed on Fellini , offered a candid look at his life in film, while My Favourite Movies explored his deep connection to 111 films.
His family has requested privacy but invited fans to honor him by watching their favorite film—or his own favorite, Singin’ in the Rain . A public memorial service will be announced soon. For those who grew up with his reviews, his passing feels like the closing credits on a remarkable chapter in Australian culture. His voice, his insight, and his unshakable belief in the power of cinema will be deeply missed.
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