Most Popular Films of Australia

Australian Cinema reflects the distinct culture and landscapes of the nation through a vibrant curtain of varied narratives. It has created Classic Movies that have made a lasting impression on the World Cinema scene. George Miller's "Mad Max" series, which debuted in 1979 and depicted a chaotic, post-apocalyptic world set against the Australian outback, revolutionized action cinema. The eerie mystery Picnic at Hanging Rock by Peter Weir investigates the disappearance of schoolgirls in the untamed Australian outback. Peter Faiman's1986 outback comedy Crocodile Dundee combined humor and an adventurous spirit to become a cultural icon in addition to captivating audiences worldwide. Baz Luhrmann's distinct directing style, which combines vivid images and narrative, was on display in his 1992 film Strictly Ballroom and his 2001 film Moulin Rouge. Films like Warwick Thornton's Samson and Delilah (2009), which show the terrible realities faced by Aboriginal youth, helped bring attention to indigenous stories. Diverse narratives are regularly explored in the Australian Film Industry. In addition to showcasing Australia's breathtaking landscapes, this diverse collection of filmscaptures the nation's rich cultural and cinematic legacy and tells tales that are both universally relatable and uniquely Australian.

 

Top 100 Films of Australia 

 

In this article we will explore the Top 100 Films of Australia each contributing to the country's cinematic excellence and global cultural influence.

Mad Max (1979): Directed by George Miller and Produced by Byron Kennedy the Dystopian Action Movie Mad Max, was released in 1979 in Australia.

Picnic at Hanging Rock (1979):  A 1979 Australian Mystery Film Directed by Peter Weir and Produced by Hal McElroy and Jim McElroy. It was a financial and critical triumph that contributed to the global recognition of the then-emerging Australian New Wave of Film.

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994):  A 1994 Australian Road Comedy Film that Stephan Elliott both wrote and directed. The film's positive portrayal of LGBT people contributed to the acceptance of LGBT Films among a wider audience. 

The Babadook (2014):  In 2014, Jennifer Kent made her feature directorial debut with the Australian psychological horror film The Babadook, which she wrote and directed. 

Samson and Delilah (2010) : An Australian Drama Film Directed by Warwick Thornton. Numerous honours were bestowed upon it, including the Cannes Caméra d'Or for best first feature.

Lantana (2001): Lantana is a 2001 Australian-German drama film, directed by Ray Lawrence, cantered on the intricate relationships between the characters in the movie, which is set in a Sydney suburb.

Strictly Ballroom (1992):  In 1992, Baz Luhrmann made his feature directorial debut with the romantic comedy Strictly Ballroom, an Australian production.

Gallipoli (1981): Mel Gibson and Mark Lee star in Peter Weir's 1981 Australian war drama Gallipoli, which was produced by Patricia Lovell and Robert Stigwood.

Muriel's Wedding (1994):  Muriel's Wedding is a Australian comedy-drama film written and directed by P. J. Hogan. 

 Sweet Country (2018):  Sweet Country is a 2018 Australian drama film, directed by Warwick Thornton. 

The Proposition (2005):  The Proposition is a 2005 Australian Western film directed by John Hillcoat and written by screenwriter and musician Nick Cave.

Animal Kingdom (2011):  Animal Kingdom is a 2010 Australian crime drama film written and directed by David Michôd in his feature directorial debut. On January 22, 2010, it made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival, where it took home the World Cinema Jury Prize.

The Castle (1997):  The Castle is a 1997 Australian comedy film directed by Rob Sitch, and written by Sitch, Santo Cilauro, Tom Gleisner and Jane Kennedy of Working Dog Productions.

Wolf Creek (2005):  Greg McLean is the writer, co-producer, and director of Wolf Creek, an Australian horror movie from 2005 that stars John Jarratt, Nathan Phillips, Cassandra Magrath, and Kestie Morassi.

Shine (1996):  Shine is a 1996 Australian biographical psychological drama film directed by Scott Hicks based on the life of David Helfgott, a pianist who suffered a mental breakdown and spent years in institutions.

Chopper (2001):  Andrew Dominik made his feature directing debut with the 2000 Australian crime drama filmChopper, which is based on the autobiographical books of criminal turned author Mark "Chopper" Read.

Babe (1995): Babe is a 1995 comedy-drama film directed by Chris Noonan, produced by George Miller and written by both.

Snowtown (2011): Snowtown is a 2011 Australian biographical crime drama directed by Justin Kurzel in his directorial debut and written by Shaun Grant based on the true story of the Snowtown murders.

The Dish (2000): The Dish, an Australian historical comedy-drama film from 2000, is directed by Rob Sitch and relates the tale of Parkes Observatory's involvement in transmitting live television of the first steps taken by humans on the Moon in 1969 during the Apollo 11 mission.

Red Dog (2011):  Red Dog is a 2011 Australian comedy-drama family film written by Daniel Taplitz, directed by Kriv Stenders and produced by Nelson Woss and Julie Ryan.

Breaker Morant (1980):  Bruce Beresford co-wrote the screenplay for Breaker Morant, an Australian war drama film released in 1980. The play of the same name by Kenneth G. Ross was the inspiration for the film.

Two Hands (1999):  Two Hands is a 1999 Australian comedy crime film written and directed by Gregor Jordan.

The Dressmaker (2015): The Dressmaker is a 2015 Australian comedy-drama film co-written and directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse, based on the 2000 novel of the same name by Rosalie Ham.

Rabbit-Proof Fence (2003): The 1996 novel Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence by Doris Pilkington Garimara served as the inspiration for the 2002 Australian drama film, Rabbit-Proof Fence, which was directed and produced by Phillip Noyce.

Romper Stomper (1992): Romper Stomper is a 1992 Australian drama film written and directed by Geoffrey Wright in his feature film directorial debut.

The Man from Snowy River (1982): The Man from Snowy River is a 1982 Australian Western drama film based on the Banjo Paterson poem "The Man from Snowy River".

Healing (2014):  Healing is a 2014 Australian drama film directed by Craig Monahan. It tells the story of Viktor Khadem, a prisoner who forms a bond with an injured eagle and finds redemption through their relationship. 

The Sapphires (2013): The Sapphires is a 2013 Australian musical comedy-drama film directed by Wayne Blair.

Jedda (1956):  Jedda is a 1956 Australian film directed by Charles Chauvel. It is considered the first Australian feature film to star Indigenous actors.

The Year My Voice Broke (1987): The Year My Voice Broke is a coming-of-age drama set in rural Australia during the 1960s. 

Japanese Story (2005):  Japanese Story is a poignant drama that follows the unexpected bond between an Australian geologist and a Japanese businessman. 
 

Balibo (2010):  Balibo is a gripping political thriller based on true events, directed by Robert Connolly depicting the story of five Australian journalists who were killed during the Indonesian invasion of East Timor in 1975. 

The Black Balloon (2008) "The Black Balloon" is a heartwarming coming-of-age story set in suburban Australia, directed by Elissa Down.

Predestination (2013) Predestination is a mind-bending science fiction film directed by the Spierig brothers. 

The Water Diviner (2015) The Water Diviner is a powerful war drama directed by Russell Crowe. With its stunning cinematography and heartfelt performances, "The Water Diviner" is a deeply moving and emotionally resonant film. 

The Rover (2014)  "The Rover" is a gritty post-apocalyptic thriller directed by David Michôd. Set in a dystopian future. 

The Quiet Earth (1987)  It is another notable post-apocalyptic film directed by Geoff Murphy that explores the themes of isolation and existentialism. 

Van Diemen's Land (2009) "Van Diemen's Land" is a haunting and visceral Australian historical drama directed by Jonathan auf der Heide.

Proof (1992) "Proof" (1992) is an Australian drama film directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse that delves into the complexities of trust, perception, and human connection. 

Candy (2006)  A romantic drama film directed by Neil Armfield that explores the destructive power of addiction and the complexities of love. 

The Hunter (2011)  A psychological thriller film directed by Daniel Nettheim that delves into the depths of human nature and the struggle between man and nature. 

Last Cab to Darwin (2015) "Last Cab to Darwin" is a heartfelt Australian film directed by Jeremy Sims. The film delves into themes of mortality, friendship, and the importance of living life to the fullest. 

Looking for Alibrandi (2000) "Looking for Alibrandi" is a coming-of-age Australian film directed by Kate Woods.
 

Oranges and Sunshine (2011) The film sheds light on the dark history of forced child migration. 

The Turning (2013) The film directed by Floria Sigismondi and written by Carey W. Hayes and Chad Hayes explores themes of fear, trauma, and the impact of choices on one's life. 

"The Nightingale" (2018):  The Nightingale is a 2018 Australian historical psychological thriller film written and directed by Jennifer Kent.
 

"Lore" (2012): Lore is a 2012 German-language historical drama film directed by Cate Shortland.

The Jammed (2007) "The Jammed" is an Australian thriller film that delves into the dark world of human trafficking. The film is directed by Dee McLachlan.
 

"In My Blood It Runs" (2019): "In My Blood It Runs" (2019) is a powerful documentary that follows the life of a 10-year-old Aboriginal boy named Dujua directed Maya Newell.
 

"Hacksaw Ridge" (2016) : "Hacksaw Ridge" (2016) is a gripping war film based on the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a medic during World War II. 

Storm Boy (1977) "Storm Boy" (1977) is a heartwarming Australian film that tells the story of a young boy named Mike and his bond with a pelican named Mr. Percival.

"Mystify: Michael Hutchence" (2019): a documentary that delves into the life and legacy of the iconic INXS frontman, Michael Hutchence. 

"The Story of the Kelly Gang" (1906): considered the world's first feature-length narrative film, directed by Charles Tait, the film was a groundbreaking achievement in early cinema and remains an important piece of Australian film history. "The Story of the Kelly Gang" paved the way for future filmmakers and showcased Australia's unique storytelling abilities on the global stage. 

"Down Under" (2016): a modern Australian comedy film that follows the journey of a British backpacker exploring the country. 

Bran Nue Dae (2009) "Bran Nue Dae" is a musical comedy-drama that follows the journey of an Aboriginal teenager named Willie as he navigates his way back home. 

"Black Robe" (1991): "Black Robe" is a historical drama set in 17th century Canada, directed by Bruce Beresford. 

"The Hunter" (2011): "The Hunter" (2011) is an Australian drama film directed by Daniel Nettheim. Set in the Tasmanian wilderness, the film follows a skilled mercenary who is hired to track down the last remaining Tasmanian tiger. 

Son of a Gun (2015) A crime thriller directed by Julius Avery. The film centers around a young criminal who forms an unlikely alliance with a seasoned inmate to execute a daring prison escape. 

"The Proposition" (2005): "The Proposition" is a gritty Australian western film directed by John Hillcoat. This dark and atmospheric film offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human 

"The Babadook" (2014): A psychological horror film directed by Jennifer Kent. It revolves around a single mother and her troubled son who are haunted by a mysterious creature from a children's book. 

"Tracks" (2013): "Tracks" is a biographical adventure drama film directed by John Curran. Based on a true story, it follows the journey of Robyn Davidson, a young woman who sets out on a 1,700-mile trek across the Australian desert with only her dog and four camels. 

The Loved Ones (2010) "The Loved Ones" is a horror film directed by Sean Byrne. It tells the story of a high school student named Brent who becomes the target of a deranged girl and her equally disturbed father after he rejects her invitation to prom. The film is known for its intense and disturbing scenes, as well as its exploration of themes such as obsession, revenge, and the dark side of human nature. 

"The Rage in Placid Lake" (2003): "The Rage in Placid Lake" (2003) is a coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Tony McNamara. 

"Blinky Bill: The Movie" (2015): is an animated adventure film directed by Deane Taylor. The movie tells the story of Blinky Bill, a mischievous koala who embarks on a journey to find his missing father. 

"The Burning" (1981): "The Burning" is a slasher film directed by Tony Maylam. Set at a summer camp, the movie follows a group of teenagers who become the targets of a vengeful caretaker who was horribly burned in a prank gone wrong.

"The Dressmaker" (2015): "The Dressmaker" is a dark comedy-drama film directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse.  

Cosi (1996): "Cosi" (1996) is a dark comedy-drama film directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse. Set in a small Australian town, the movie revolves around Tilly Dunnage, a talented dressmaker who returns to her hometown to take care of her ailing mother. 

"The Square" (2008): is a Swedish drama film directed by Ruben Östlund. The movie follows Christian, the curator of a contemporary art museum, as he deals with various challenges and dilemmas in both his personal and professional life. 

Beautiful Kate (2009) "Beautiful Kate" is a deeply emotional and haunting film directed by Rachel Ward. 

"Last Ride" (2009): Another emotionally charged film directed by Rachel Ward, "Last Ride" takes viewers on a gripping journey through the Australian wilderness. 

"The Cup" (2011): "The Cup" is a heartwarming sports drama directed by Simon Wincer that tells the true story of jockey Damien Oliver's triumph in the prestigious Melbourne Cup. 

"The Tree" (2010): "The Tree" (2010) is a poignant drama directed by Julie Bertuccelli that explores the emotional journey of a young girl named Simone after the sudden death of her father. 

Beneath Hill 60 (2010) A war film directed by Jeremy Sims, tells the gripping true story of Oliver Woodward, a young Australian miner turned soldier during World War I. 

"The Rocket" (2013): "The Rocket" (2013) is a heartwarming and poignant film that follows the journey of a young boy named Ahlo, who is believed to bring bad luck to his family. 

"The Water Diviner" (2014): "The Water Diviner" (2014) is an emotionally gripping film that tells the story of an Australian farmer named Joshua Connor, who travels to Turkey in search of his three missing sons who went missing during World War I. 

"Healing" (2014): the power of human resilience. The film explores how individuals can find redemption and hope even in the darkest of times. 

In the Winter Dark (1998) the haunting tale of isolation and fear. Set in a remote Australian town, the film explores the psychological toll that darkness and secrets can have on individuals and communities. 

"The Last Wave" (1977): Directed by Peter Weir, "The Last Wave" is a mesmerizing supernatural drama that delves into the clash between traditional Indigenous beliefs and modern society. 

My Brilliant Career (1979): "My Brilliant Career" is a coming-of-age drama set in rural Australia during the late 19th century. 

The Adventures of Barry McKenzie (1972): "The Adventures of Barry McKenzie" is a satirical comedy film that showcases the misadventures of an uncouth Australian man named Barry McKenzie. Directed by Bruce Beresford, the film humorously depicts Barry's encounters with different cultures and his hilarious attempts to fit into various social settings. 

"Crocodile Dundee" (1986): "Crocodile Dundee" is another comedy film that explores the cultural differences between Australia and the United States. Directed by Peter Faiman, the movie follows the story of Mick Dundee, a rugged Australian bushman who finds himself in New York City. 

"Happy Feet" (2006): "Happy Feet" is an animated musical film that delves into themes of self-acceptance and environmental conservation. Directed by George Miller, the movie tells the story of Mumble, a young emperor penguin who is born with the ability to tap dance instead of singing like other penguins. 

"Australia" (2008): "Australia" (2008) is another notable film directed by George Miller, known for his expertise in creating visually captivating movies. 

"Rabbit-Proof Fence" (2002): Another notable film by Baz Luhrmann is "Rabbit-Proof Fence" (2002), which tells the true story of three Aboriginal girls who escape from a government settlement and embark on a dangerous journey home. 

"Bran Nue Dae" (2009): "Bran Nue Dae" is a vibrant and uplifting musical that follows the journey of a young Aboriginal man named Willie as he navigates his way back to his hometown. 

"The Dish" (2000): "The Dish" is a heartwarming comedy that tells the true story of a group of Australian scientists who played a crucial role in the historic Apollo 11 moon landing. 

"Red Dog" (2011): a heartwarming tale based on a true story about a beloved dog who brings together a community in the remote Australian outback. 

"The Man from Snowy River" (1982): a classic Australian film that tells the story of a young man's journey to prove himself in the rugged Snowy Mountains. 

Puberty Blues (1983): a coming-of-age film set in the 1970s that explores the lives of two teenage girls navigating the complexities of adolescence in suburban Australia. 

"Young Einstein" (1988): a quirky and light-hearted Australian comedy that takes a comedic spin on history and science. Set in the 1900s, the film follows the eccentric Albert Einstein as he navigates his way through hilarious misadventures and unexpected discoveries. With its clever humor and charming performances, "Young Einstein" provides a refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre, showcasing the power of imagination and individuality in a world that often demands conformity. 

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994) This Australian comedy film follows the journey of two drag queens and a transgender woman as they travel across the Outback in a colorful tour bus named Priscilla.

"Strictly Ballroom" (1992): "Strictly Ballroom" (1992) is a delightful romantic comedy film that follows the journey of a talented but rebellious ballroom dancer named Scott Hastings.