Movie Review - Australia

Australia ironically breaks away from the Australian form of cinematic story-telling and follows a strictly Hollywood formula in bringing this tale of a woman on a quest to save her late husband's cattle ranch from evil commercial forces. Set against a backdrop of WWII, dreamtime magic and of course, love (because every story must have love), the movie was a fulfilling experience.

The performances brought forth by the actors were absolutely beleiveable. Kidman was perfect as the English Rose who discovers she has gumption. Jackman, the penulitmate Australian bloke with a heart of gold and a body like steel - yummy. David Gulpilil, who has acted in what seems like every film every made with an Aboriginal theme, is amazing as the grandfather. And Brandon Walters was heartbreaking as Nullah, the little boy torn between White Australia and the ways of his forefathers. His deep soulful eyes and boyish energy captured my heart.

The movie had many poignant movies which entranced me. The relationship between Lady Ashley and the Drover was of course key, and for me, extremely cathartic. Especially the scene under the boab tree. That is one of my favourite screen kisses now.

The scene between Nullah and Lady Ashley where she tells him about the Wizard of Oz was also very moving. And thanks R. for pointing out the parallel between Wizard of OZ, and Nullah's dream to be the magic man of Oz. I can't beleive I didn't see it.

Hollywood influences aside (really guys, was the Oscar really that important for you to do that?), the movie was very well produced. Some loose edits and strange transitions were a bit jarring, but that could have been done by our censorship board, so I won't put too fine a point on that. But its a must see if you like epic movies.