Quirky, fun, heart-warming and a little glimpse into post-war life in Australia, Ladies in Black has it all.

In 1959, Sydney, Australia was just getting back on its feet, post World War II. Commerce was booming and the city was coming alive again. It was a new again of immigrants and fresh starts, industry and fashion and women thriving in business, education and in the home. And Goode’s Department store was at the center of it all.

Lisa (Angourie Rice), a 17 year-old school girl, is hired on at the posh department store for the holiday rush. She quickly proves herself as a hard worker and a clever young women which catches the eye of the head of the women’s evening wear department, Slovenian immigrant, Magda (Julia Ormond).

Under Magda’s wing, Lisa begins to transition from childhood to womanhood by asserting her independence in her choice of fashion, friends and her future. While her parents struggle with the blossoming of their daughter, they remain open and supportive as Lisa tests the waters of her independence.

At the same time, some of Lisa’s other new co-workers are at major crossroads in their own lives. Pat (Alison McGirr), a lonely wife with a disconnected husband, struggles with her feelings of isolation and abandonment when her husband mysteriously disappears over the holidays. Another lady in black at the women’s counter, Fay (Rachael Taylor), confesses her past to her new love interest not knowing if he will accept her questionable past.

All of these ladies come together to tell the story of the emerging, post-war, modern woman. Its a beautifully told tale, based on the novel The Women in Black by Madeleine St. John and adapted for film by Bruce Beresford and Sue Milliken. Beresford is also at the helm as director, bringing forth beautiful performances full of heart and humour.

This film is the realization of a 20 year promise that Beresford made to his college friend, St. John, upon reading an early draft of her novel. Though it took decades to achieve this film was wildly popular upon its release in Australia and went on to please critics and audiences around the world.

This story is a delight and he perfect watch for a weekend movie night. Be sure to check out this hidden gem, Ladies in Black, on Netflix this month.