top 10 - aussie flicks

Australian films are going great guns at present, with a swag of local production acting as the proverbial prawns chucked on the barbie of acclaim. But while 2009 truly marks the renaissance of Aussie filmmaking, there have been many, many excellent films produced in this country over the years. Currently hanging with us Madman Crew is the lovely Alice, who (apart from being a true-blue little ripper and all-round top Sheila) is a Master of all things cinematic. She has loved Aussie film ever since she was tall enough to steal her older brother’s VHS copy of BAD BOY BUBBY (which was, coincidentally, also the moment her bizarre school-girl crush on Nicholas Hope began…), so who better to tell us their Top Ten Aussie films?

10. RABBIT PROOF FENCE

Other than being culturally significant to our film history I just thought this film was gripping and tense, and so well made.

9. CHOPPER

Brutal and unforgiving – akin to a Greek tragedy. The making of Eric Bana.

8. VAN DIEMEN’S LAND

An incredible exploration of the darker side to human nature and our survival instincts. Inspirational filmmaking on the cheap and, I think, marks an exciting new era in independent Australian cinema.

7. LANTANA

Brilliant performances, brilliantly put together.

6. MURIEL’S WEDDING

A well-deserved classic. An absolute pleasure to watch – entertainment at its best.

5. TEN CANOES

I remember seeing TEN CANOES and thinking it was like nothing I’d ever seen before. Such a distinctive film that looks honestly and joyously at Indigenous history and culture.

4. HARVIE KRUMPET

A really special, unique film, with the poignancy and insight of a Leunig cartoon.

3. BALIBO

Anthony Lapaglia in Balibo

The most deeply affecting film I’ve seen in years. Was literally shaking by the end.

2. THE BOYS

Brilliant psychological character study. Proof that powerful filmmaking can be made within the confines of four walls.

1. THE CASTLE

The great Australian Classic: The Castle

What I love about THE CASTLE is its affection for its characters – it embraces ordinary working class Australia with warmth and humour. It’s funny and poignant, and significant as a metaphor for Indigenous land rights. The most quoted film in Australian film history!