Clowning Around

The 1991 Australian-French family drama directed by George Whaley is based on David Martin's novel "Clowning Sim". The film follows fifteen-year-old Simon Gunner (Clayton Williamson), a foster child with aspirations of becoming a circus clown. Facing misunderstanding from his third set of foster parents, who deem his dreams peculiar, Simon runs away and joins an outback rodeo, eventually finding his way into a traveling circus. There, he meets former clown Anatole Tolin (Jean-Michel Dagory), a strict and demanding mentor who teaches him the art of clowning. Simon also finds support from the cheerful and kind-hearted Jack Merrick (Ernie Dingo), who helps him overcome challenges and believe in himself. In pursuit of his place in the world, Simon travels to Paris, where he gets the opportunity to realize his dream on an international stage. The film explores themes of self-discovery, overcoming obstacles, and the power of mentorship, while also highlighting cultural differences and the challenges of adaptation. The cast includes Rebecca Smart, Noni Hazlehurst, and Jill Perryman. Notably, the film features a cameo by Heath Ledger as an orphan clown, marking his film debut, although he is uncredited. ​