Australia
Australia

Movie spotlight

Australia

1989
Movie
140 min
French

Following a stint as a WWII fighter pilot, Belgian-born Edouard falls in love with an Indonesian woman, has a daughter with her and immigrates to Australia, all without the knowledge of his family back home. Years later, his love has passed away, and he's raising his daughter on his own. When his brother calls seeking help with his failing wool-processing company, Edouard agrees to temporarily return home to aid him.

Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Director: Stewart MainGenres: Drama, War

Plot Summary

Set during World War I, 'Australia' tells the story of a young woman who travels from England to Australia to join her husband on his isolated sheep station. Upon arrival, she discovers her husband has died and she is left to manage the struggling property and confront the harsh realities of the Australian outback. The film explores themes of resilience, isolation, and the challenges faced by women in a frontier society.

Critical Reception

While 'Australia' was not a major box office success, it received some critical attention for its atmospheric portrayal of the Australian landscape and its exploration of a woman's struggle for independence. Some critics praised its visual style and performances, though others found its pacing slow and its narrative somewhat underdeveloped.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its evocative depiction of the Australian outback and its sensitive portrayal of a woman's isolation.

  • Some reviewers noted a deliberate, slow pace that may not appeal to all audiences.

  • The film's strength lies in its visual storytelling and atmospheric mood.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for 'Australia' (1989) is not readily available, but general audience reception suggests a mixed response, with appreciation for its visual elements and dramatic themes, tempered by observations of its deliberate pacing.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in Queensland, Australia, capturing the vast and rugged beauty of the outback, which plays a significant role in the film's atmosphere and narrative.

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