Classic Aussie movies
In a Hollywood dominated entertainment industry, there are a few Australian classics that truly define Aussie culture and have spoken to audiences at home and abroad. These classic Australian movies showcase the Australian character, humour and spirit and produced some of the most repeated and classic movie quotes. Sure, they’re also responsible for propelling a few Aussie stereotypes, but we love them none-the-less! Here are a few of the favourites.
– Crocodile Dundee 1986- This Australian comedy is responsible for spawning many Australian stereotypes, and achieved its aim of being an Aussie film that appealed to American audiences. Set between the Outback and New York City, it tells the tale of a New York girl falling for an Aussie bloke. Paul Hogan’s Aussie accent and his one-liners such as ‘That’s not a knife…Now that’s a knife’ have become part of popular Aussie vernacular, and helped make it the number one box office film of 1986.
– The Castle 1997 – this Aussie comedy was made on a budget of $9,000 but is still one of the most popular Australian films of all time. The film centres on the Kerrigan family and their modest lifestyle, and their fight against the acquisition of their home to expand neighbouring Melbourne Airport. The case eventually goes against the High Court of Australia, and is a tale of the little man standing up to the corporate giants. The humour of the film plays on the self image of Australians – particularly modest working class families. The title is reference to the saying that ‘a man’s home is his castle’, which is true of the house proud Kerrigans. Some of the classic lines include ‘Tell him his dreaming’ and ‘Dale dug a hole’.
– Muriel’s Wedding 1994 – This cult Australian film was a hit at Australian and international box offices. The film follows the story of ugly-duckling ‘Muriel’ and her quest to get her dream wedding. The film received critical acclaim for having substance, comedy and romance, and was the spring board for the Hollywood careers of Toni Collete and Rachel Griffiths. The classic line “You’re terrible, Muriel” is a favourite quote from the movie which is often repeated by Aussies.
– The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert 1994 – This comedy-drama follows three drag queens that travel across outback Australia in their tour bus, Priscilla. Starring Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce and Terence Stamp as the drag queens, the film got worldwide attention for portraying LGBT communities in a sensitive and positive light. In Australia, the film remains a cult classic, and helped promote the Australian film industry as quirky, individual and eccentric.
For a real insight into the Australian character and humour, then watch some of these cult-classic films. You can buy these DVDs online or from most retailers. If you know someone that hasn’t experience these classic Australian films, then buy then a DVD gift card and let them choose one for themselves and get up to date!
For the latest new releases in music, movies and video games visit sanity.com.au – Australia’s leading site to buyDVDs online
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