Australian cinema in 2024 has produced a remarkable array of films that showcase the country’s talent for storytelling and filmmaking. This blog highlights 5 must-see Australian films of the year: “The Drover’s Wife,” “The Furnace,” “High Ground,” “The Nightingale,” and “Babyteeth.” Each film offers a unique narrative and unforgettable performances, making them stand out in this year’s cinematic offerings.
“The Drover’s Wife”
Plot Overview
Directed by Leah Purcell, “The Drover’s Wife” is a reimagining of Henry Lawson’s classic tale. The film follows Molly Johnson (Leah Purcell), a woman living in the harsh Australian outback who must defend her home and children from various threats while her husband is away driving.
Performances
Leah Purcell delivers a powerful performance as Molly Johnson, bringing strength and vulnerability to the role. Her portrayal is complemented by strong supporting performances from Rob Collins and Jessica De Gouw.
Cinematic Elements
The film’s cinematography captures the stark beauty of the Australian outback, creating a visually striking backdrop for the story. The score enhances the film’s emotional depth, adding to the tension and drama.
Cultural Impact
“The Drover’s Wife” has been praised for its feminist perspective and its exploration of themes such as resilience, survival, and justice. The film has sparked conversations about the representation of women and Indigenous Australians in cinema.
The Drover’s Wife (film) – Wikipedia
“The Furnace”
Plot Overview
Directed by Roderick MacKay, “The Furnace” is set during the gold rushes of the 1890s and follows the journey of a young Afghan cameleer (Ahmed Malek) who teams up with a bushman (David Wenham) to escape with stolen gold. The film explores themes of survival, greed, and the diverse cultural landscape of Australia during this period.
Performances
Ahmed Malek and David Wenham deliver compelling performances, capturing the tension and desperation of their characters’ journey. The supporting cast, including Baykali Ganambarr and Erik Thomson, adds depth to the film’s rich tapestry of characters.
Cinematic Elements
The film’s cinematography by Michael McDermott beautifully captures the harsh and rugged landscapes of the Australian outback. The score, composed by Mark Bradshaw, enhances the film’s atmosphere and emotional impact.
Cultural Impact
“The Furnace” has been celebrated for its unique historical perspective and its portrayal of the diverse communities that contributed to Australia’s development. The film has been praised for its authenticity and its exploration of little-known aspects of Australian history.
The Furnace (2020 film) – Wikipedia
“High Ground”
Plot Overview
Directed by Stephen Maxwell Johnson, “High Ground” is a powerful drama set in the 1930s that explores the complex relationship between Indigenous Australians and European settlers. The film follows a former soldier (Simon Baker) who teams up with a young Indigenous man (Jacob Junior Nayinggul) to track down a fugitive.
Performances
Simon Baker and Jacob Junior Nayinggul deliver standout performances, capturing the emotional and cultural tensions at the heart of the story. The supporting cast, including Jack Thompson and Aaron Pedersen, provide strong performances that add depth to the film.
Cinematic Elements
The film’s cinematography by Andrew Commis captures the breathtaking landscapes of Arnhem Land, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the story. The score, composed by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis, adds to the film’s haunting and powerful atmosphere.
Cultural Impact
“High Ground” has been praised for its respectful and authentic portrayal of Indigenous Australian culture and history. The film has sparked important conversations about Australia’s colonial past and the ongoing impact on Indigenous communities.
High Ground (2020 film) – Wikipedia
“The Nightingale”
Plot Overview
Directed by Jennifer Kent, “The Nightingale” is a historical thriller set in 1825 in Tasmania. The film follows Clare (Aisling Franciosi), an Irish convict seeking revenge for the brutal murder of her family. She enlists the help of an Aboriginal tracker (Baykali Ganambarr) as she pursues the British soldiers responsible.
Performances
Aisling Franciosi delivers a raw and powerful performance as Clare, capturing her character’s pain and determination. Baykali Ganambarr provides a standout performance as Billy, adding depth and complexity to the film’s exploration of colonial violence and Indigenous resistance.
Cinematic Elements
The film’s cinematography by Radek Ladczuk captures the lush and haunting landscapes of Tasmania, creating a visually immersive experience. The score enhances the film’s tension and emotional intensity.
Cultural Impact
“The Nightingale” has been praised for its unflinching portrayal of historical violence and its focus on the experiences of women and Indigenous people during colonial times. The film has sparked important discussions about Australia’s colonial history and its representation in cinema.
The Nightingale (Hannah novel) – Wikipedia
“Babyteeth”
Plot Overview
Directed by Shannon Murphy, “Babyteeth” is a coming-of-age drama that follows Milla (Eliza Scanlen), a terminally ill teenager who falls in love with a small-time drug dealer (Toby Wallace). The film explores themes of love, family, and the search for meaning in the face of mortality.
Performances
Eliza Scanlen delivers a heartbreaking and authentic performance as Milla, capturing her character’s vulnerability and strength. Toby Wallace provides a charismatic and nuanced portrayal of Moses, while Essie Davis and Ben Mendelsohn shine as Milla’s parents.
Cinematic Elements
The film’s cinematography by Andrew Commis captures the intimate and emotional moments of Milla’s journey. The score, composed by Amanda Brown, adds to the film’s emotional depth and resonance.
Cultural Impact
“Babyteeth” has been praised for its fresh and unconventional approach to the coming-of-age genre. The film has resonated with audiences for its honest portrayal of love and loss and its exploration of the complexities of family relationships.
Conclusion for Australian Films
These films not only entertain but also provoke thought and discussion, making them essential viewing for audiences in Australia and worldwide.
