“Australia’s ending delves into the harsh realities of colonial struggles, showcasing Lady Sarah’s resilience and Nullah’s poignant choice to embrace his Aboriginal heritage, conveying a powerful message about cultural understanding and historical injustices.”
Introduction
In the 2008 film “Australia,” directed by Baz Luhrmann, viewers are taken on an epic journey through the vast and rugged landscapes of northern Australia. This article will delve into the movie’s plot, explore its ending, introduce the cast, and provide information on where you can watch this cinematic adventure online.
Australia Movie Overview
“Australia” is a historical epic directed by Baz Luhrmann, starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. Set in northern Australia between 1939 and 1942, the film captures the essence of World War II and the struggles faced by its characters. The screenplay was crafted by a team of talented writers, including Baz Luhrmann himself.
Australia Movie Ending Explained
The ending of “Australia” encapsulates the challenges and triumphs of its characters in a colonial setting. Lady Sarah Ashley, played by Nicole Kidman, arrives in Australia to a harsh and unfamiliar environment, defying the norms of British etiquette. She takes charge of Faraway Downs and becomes “Missus Boss,” determined to protect the land and its people from the schemes of Neil Fletcher.
The story unfolds against the backdrop of cultural clashes and injustices faced by the Aboriginal community. An Aboriginal elder, King George, is framed for the murder of Lord Ashley, revealing the oppressive colonial narrative. Lady Sarah, with the help of Drover (Hugh Jackman), challenges Fletcher and strives to sell her cattle to the army amidst the chaos of World War II.
As the narrative unfolds, Fletcher’s deceit and manipulation come to light, leading to a race against time. The climax involves a Japanese attack on Mission Island, separating Lady Sarah from Nullah, an Aboriginal boy she deeply cares for. In a twist of fate, she believes Drover and Nullah have perished.
Meanwhile, Fletcher attempts to force Lady Sarah to sell Faraway Downs, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Drover sacrifices himself to save Nullah, revealing Fletcher’s true nature. The ending encapsulates themes of resilience, cultural understanding, and the consequences of colonial oppression.
Nullah, choosing to follow his Aboriginal heritage, leaves Lady Sarah to embark on a traditional Walkabout with his grandfather, King George. The conclusion underscores the importance of respecting diverse cultures and the impact of historical injustices on indigenous communities.
Australia Release Date
“Australia” had its first release on November 18, 2008, in Sydney, creating excitement in its home country. The film then reached audiences in the United States on November 26, 2008, followed by a Christmas release on December 26, 2008, in Australia. This strategic scheduling aimed to capture the attention of diverse audiences, marking a cinematic journey that unfolded across different continents in the latter part of 2008.
Australia Plot
The plot of “Australia” follows Lady Sarah Ashley’s journey to Australia in 1939, where she discovers her husband murdered on the Faraway Downs cattle station. Blamed on an Aboriginal elder named “King George,” the station manager, Fletcher, plots to take over. Lady Sarah, aided by Drover and a diverse team, decides to drive the cattle to Darwin for sale, facing challenges like a deadly fire.
Lady Sarah and Drover fall in love, successfully selling the cattle and living happily on Faraway Downs. However, Fletcher returns, revealing he killed Lady Sarah’s husband and is Nullah’s father. Nullah, a boy Lady Sarah cares for, is sent away, and Lady Sarah, working during World War II, fears for his safety.
Drover returns during the Japanese attack, rescuing Nullah. Reuniting in Darwin, Fletcher attempts harm, but “King George” intervenes, and Lady Sarah, Drover, and Nullah find refuge back at Faraway Downs. Nullah chooses to stay with his Aboriginal grandfather, leaving Lady Sarah and Drover to reflect on their journey in the vast Outback.
Australia Cast
The cast of “Australia” includes renowned actors and actresses such as Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, David Wenham, Bryan Brown, Jack Thompson, and David Gulpilil. These talented individuals brought the characters to life in this epic adventure.
Actor |
Character |
Nicole Kidman | Lady Sarah Ashley |
Hugh Jackman | The Drover |
David Wenham | Neil Fletcher |
Bryan Brown | King Carney |
Jack Thompson | Kipling Flynn |
David Gulpilil | King George |
Brandon Walters | Nullah |
David Ngoombujarra | Magarri |
Ben Mendelsohn | Captain Dutton |
Essie Davis | Catherine Carney |
Barry Otto | Administrator Allsop |
Kerry Walker | Myrtle Allsop |
Sandy Gore | Gloria Carney |
Ursula Yovich | Daisy |
Lillian Crombie | Bandy Legs |
Yuen Wah | Sing Song |
Angus Pilakui | Goolaj |
Jacek Koman | Ivan |
Tony Barry | Sergeant Callahan |
Ray Barrett | Ramsden |
Max Cullen | Old Drunk |
Arthur Dignam | Mission Island priest |
Matthew Whittet | Mission Island Christian brother |
Where to Watch Australia?
You can currently enjoy “Australia” on Hulu for streaming. Additionally, if you wish to own or rent the movie, it is available for purchase on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, and DIRECTV. Whether you prefer to buy it for keeps or rent for a one-time watch, these online platforms offer the flexibility to enjoy “Australia” at your convenience.
Australia Movie Ending Explained – FAQ
- What is the main theme of “Australia”? The film explores themes of love, resilience, and cultural understanding against the backdrop of wartime Australia.
- When was “Australia” first released? The movie had its initial release on November 26, 2008, in the United States and later on December 26, 2008, in Australia.
- Who plays the lead characters in “Australia”? Nicole Kidman stars as Lady Sarah Ashley, and Hugh Jackman portrays The Drover.
- Is there an extended version or sequel to “Australia”? Yes, in November 2023, an extended six-episode mini-series titled “Faraway Downs” will be released on Disney+ Australia and Hulu.
- Where can I watch “Australia” online? “Australia” is currently available for streaming on Hulu and can be purchased or rented on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, and DIRECTV.
Conclusion
“Australia” is a cinematic masterpiece that takes audiences on a journey through history, love, and the rugged beauty of the Australian Outback. Its powerful ending reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of cultural understanding. So, whether you’re a fan of epic adventures or historical dramas, “Australia” is a must-watch film that offers both entertainment and thought-provoking themes.