Story Doctors

This film tackles the deep need for Australians to understand and feel connected to the full breadth of our cultural tapestry. To go beyond platitudes and rhetoric to stories that connect ancient wisdom with contemporary human experience. Boori has often made the comment that “if we lose it, you lose it too.” His point being, that the loss of Aboriginal culture and heritage would be a tragedy not only for Aboriginal people but for the Australian nation as a whole. Ever since Captain Cook arrived on these shores and declared terra nullius this country has been a land divided. This film explores the nexus point where Aboriginal storytellers such as Boori and those following in his wake are using story and art to connect us to the ancient song and storylines in new ways that offer a pathway beyond yes or no, beyond me and you, and towards – us.

This film is essential viewing for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, particularly those in positions of influence within education, community services, and cultural preservation. Indigenous communities benefit by seeing their cultural stories valued and shared, strengthening a sense of identity and pride among youth. For non-Indigenous audiences, including educators, policymakers, and the general public, “Story Doctors” offers a means to understand Aboriginal culture deeply, fostering empathy and respect. Additionally, mental health and social workers can use the film to better understand the cultural contexts of Indigenous resilience. By reaching these audiences, the film can inspire genuine change—encouraging individuals to respect Aboriginal traditions, support community-driven reconciliation, and advocate for a unified Australia where ancient wisdom is embraced as a guide toward a healthier, more connected society.

With Story Doctors, we aim to create a film that fosters healing, both within Indigenous communities and among broader audiences, by immersing viewers in the rich world of Aboriginal storytelling. Guided by Boori Monty Pryor and other “story doctors,” the film shares stories that carry generations of wisdom, resilience, and cultural identity, offering “medicine” to address wounds of cultural disconnection and loss. We hope Indigenous viewers feel seen, validated, and inspired to reconnect with the transformative power of their own stories. For non-Indigenous viewers, the film provides an opportunity for deeper understanding and empathy, bridging cultural divides and promoting unity. Ultimately, we envision Story Doctors as a resource for individual and collective healing, where audiences feel the enduring significance of these narratives and the unique ways they invite us all toward reconciliation.

Our team is deeply embedded within Indigenous communities, ensuring authenticity and respect for the stories we aim to tell. Boori Monty Pryor, our narrator and Executive Producer, is a highly respected Aboriginal storyteller and cultural leader. With a career spanning over 30 years, Boori has built invaluable relationships across diverse Indigenous communities, schools, and organisations nationwide. His powerful storytelling has earned him accolades such as the NAIDOC Award for his “outstanding contribution to the promotion of Indigenous culture,” making him a trusted voice in the community. Jon Staley, a seasoned Producer and Educator, brings a wealth of experience in empowering marginalised voices and working with indigenous youth. His collaborations with Boori, including the acclaimed film Brown Paper Bag, underscore his commitment to representing Indigenous perspectives authentically. Together, we are dedicated to crafting narratives that promote healing and unity.

“Story Doctors” will encourage audiences to take active steps toward reconciliation, starting with listening to and learning from Indigenous voices. A primary call to action will be for viewers to engage with Indigenous storytelling beyond the film, through books, events, and community interactions, helping to keep these narratives alive. Audiences will also be encouraged to advocate for Indigenous-led education in schools, amplifying Aboriginal perspectives in learning curriculums. Additionally, viewers can support policies that protect and celebrate Aboriginal culture, such as initiatives for land rights, cultural preservation, and language revitalisation. By participating in these efforts, audiences contribute to a movement where Indigenous voices are integral to Australia’s narrative, fostering a shared future rooted in mutual respect and healing.