Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pays touching tribute to beloved film critic David Stratton after his death

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Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, honored renowned movie enthusiast David Stratton with a heartfelt tribute.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I’m sharing some poignant news with you all. A cherished figure known affectionately as ‘Stratts’, an esteemed English-born critic, gracefully departed at the age of 85, surrounded by peace, in a hospital nestled near his beloved Blue Mountains home, just west of Sydney. Rest in peace, Stratts.

As a devoted enthusiast, I take pride in my vast, cinema-centric knowledge that often earns me accolades and respect. Beyond my role as an educator and literature connoisseur, I’ve also honed my skills as a film critic, penning insightful reviews, and found myself unexpectedly cast in the spotlight on television.

He rose to fame alongside co-host Margaret Pomeranz. 

For nearly three decades, they led a groundbreaking film critique platform, starting with The Movie Show on SBS and eventually moving to At The Movies on the ABC.

Many, including Mr. Albanese, were deeply influenced by the softly-spoken and well-known critic, who kept his personal life private.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Prime Minister remarked that David Stratton, with his witty humor and keen perception, passionately shared his appreciation for cinema with our nation.

Everyone who watched At the Movies appreciated him for his profound movie wisdom and the kind, gracious manner in which he shared it. May he find eternal peace.

Faced with a series of health issues, Stratton retired in 2023 after a life dedicated to film.

According to his family, David’s deep love for movies, unwavering dedication to the Australian film industry, and his kind-hearted nature significantly impacted numerous lives.

‘He was adored as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and admired friend.

The family of David wishes to convey their sincere thanks for the immense affection shown by friends, work associates, and the community, both in the recent times and throughout his life.

They also had a special request for film buffs.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I encourage you all to join me in honoring the exceptional life and enduring legacy of David, by indulging in a heartfelt cinematic experience. Whether it’s your favorite film or David’s ultimate choice – Singin’ In the Rain – let’s gather around and immerse ourselves in timeless entertainment that reflects his spirit.

Hailing from Wiltshire, England, Stratton set foot in Australia in 1963 as part of the ‘Ten Pound Pom’ immigration program. Soon after, he immersed himself in the local film scene.

In 1966, he assumed the role of the head of the Sydney Film Festival (SFF), whereupon he reshaped the organization under his guidance.

During his tenure as leader at SFF Stratton, he vigorously combated the harsh censorship prevalent then, resulting in significant reductions in movies. Eventually, he departed from SFF in 1983, ensuring its financial stability and earning global respect.

In retrospect, it was uncovered that Stratton was being monitored by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation during that period because he was showing movies from the USSR at the festival and had visited a communist nation towards the end of the 1960s.

In 1980, Stratton began working at SBS as a film advisor. Later, from an on-screen perspective, he co-hosted the popular show “The Movie Show” alongside Margaret Pomeranz until 2004.

Subsequently, Stratton expressed that his tenure at SBS, particularly his work on SBS Cinema Classics and the Movie of the Week, was a source of immense pride for him.

Stratton and Pomeranz hosted At the Movies at the ABC for ten years until their retirement in 2014.

He was honored with multiple accolades for his significant work in bettering Australian society and the film world, such as the Order of Australia and the Centenary Medal.

Stratton’s final film review was published in The Australian in early 2024.

Plans for a public memorial service are underway.

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2025-08-14 16:48