Australia Movie Ending Explained, Plot, Cast, Where to Watch and More
by Kavitha
Updated Nov 28, 2023
Australia
"Australia" is a film directed by Baz Luhrmann, and released in 2008. The movie stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman and is set against the backdrop of northern Australia between 1939 and 1942, particularly during World War II. The screenplay was written by Baz Luhrmann, Stuart Beattie, Ronald Harwood, and Richard Flanagan.
The film tells a character-driven story and showcases various events happening in northern Australia during that period, including the bombing of Darwin. The production of the movie took place in Sydney, Darwin, Kununurra, and Bowen. It had its initial release on November 26, 2008, in the United States and later on December 26, 2008, in Australia. The worldwide release continued throughout late December 2008 and January and February 2009, distributed by 20th Century Fox.
The main cast includes renowned actors such as Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, David Wenham, Bryan Brown, Jack Thompson, and David Gulpilil. The cinematography was done by Mandy Walker, and the music for the film was composed by David Hirschfelder.
With a budget of $130 million, "Australia" managed to gross $211.3 million worldwide. Despite its financial success, the film received mixed reviews from critics.
In an interesting development, in November 2023, a new extended edit of the film will be released as a six-episode mini-series titled "Faraway Downs." This version will debut on Disney+ Australia and Hulu in the US. This expanded edition offers audiences a deeper look into the narrative and characters presented in the original film.
Australia Movie Ending Explained
In "Australia," the movie's ending reflects the struggles of the characters in a colonial setting. Lady Sarah Ashley, arriving in Australia, faces a harsh and unfamiliar environment, challenging the norms of British etiquette. As she takes control of Faraway Downs, she 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.
The narrative involves the framing of an Aboriginal elder, King George, for the murder of Lord Ashley, revealing the oppressive colonial narrative. Lady Sarah, with the help of Drover, challenges Fletcher and strives to sell her cattle to the army amidst the chaos of World War II. Fletcher's deceit and manipulation come to light, leading to a race against time.
The climax involves the Japanese attack on Mission Island, separating Lady Sarah from Nullah, an Aboriginal boy she cares for deeply. 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.
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Australia Release Date
"Australia" had its first release on 18th November 2008 in Sydney, creating excitement in its home country. The film then reached audiences in the United States on 26th November 2008, followed by a Christmas release on 26th December 2008 in Australia.
The staggered release allowed viewers worldwide to experience the epic adventure drama during the holiday season. 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
In 1939, Lady Sarah Ashley journeys to Australia to find her husband murdered on the Faraway Downs cattle station. Blamed on an Aboriginal elder, "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. 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.
This epic adventure weaves a tale of love, loss, and resilience against the backdrop of wartime Australia. The characters overcome personal and external challenges, forming bonds that transcend cultural barriers. As they navigate the rugged terrain and face the uncertainties of war, the film celebrates the human spirit's triumph in the vast and breathtaking landscape of the Australian Outback.
Australia Cast
The tabular column below represents the cast list for the film Australia:
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
Actor
Character
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. Check your favorite digital storefront to embark on the cinematic journey through the vast landscapes of northern Australia in this epic adventure drama.
Australia Trailer
Australia Movie Ending Explained - FAQ
The film explores themes of love, resilience, and cultural understanding against the backdrop of wartime Australia.
The movie had its initial release on November 26, 2008, in the United States and later on December 26, 2008, in Australia.
Nicole Kidman stars as Lady Sarah Ashley, and Hugh Jackman portrays The Drover.
Yes, in November 2023, an extended six-episode mini-series titled "Faraway Downs" will be released on Disney+ Australia and Hulu.
"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.