Directed by Baz Luhrmann

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Baz Luhrmann was inspired to make this epic film after falling in love with the north west of Australia, but after the first hour of traversing parched land and fighting dust storms I’m not sure how many people will be rushing to holiday here. Unfortunately the enormous amount of media hype surrounding this film hasn’t helped, because expectations are so high. It takes a while for the film to build momentum but by the time the camera is soaring over rugged red outcrops and swollen rivers, the audience is hooked into the dramas unfolding. There is probably a bit too much tinkering – back projection, inserted animation and over-the-top lighting effects, but fortunately the strength of the five lead characters gives life to the romantic adventure.

Nicole Kidman has no difficulties playing the uptight Lady Sarah Ashley – who arrives from England in 1939 to manage the remote cattle station Faraway Downs. Hugh Jackman brings Clint Eastwood attitude to the Drover who agrees to take 1500 head of cattle across the brutal landscape to Darwin. Young Brandon Walters matches the experienced actors as the orphaned half-caste, Nulla, who narrates the story. The legendary David Gulpilil gives insight into Aboriginal spiritualism as the tribal shaman known as King George and David Wenham is absolutely insidious as the bad guy.

The adventurous droving journey that transforms the main characters is rewardingly predictable and the many contentious historical issues that Luhrmann adds are often unexpected. He shows ruthlessness and corruption in Australia’s ‘Wild West’ and the short sightedness and arrogance that gave rise to stolen generations of Aboriginal children. Even the bombing of Darwin becomes a powerful backdrop for issues surrounding the treatment of Aboriginal people at that time. There’s a lot to take in as the main characters struggle to get a happy ending, but overall it’s a worthwhile journey.

Lezly Herbert