Review of Australia (2008) by Jerry M — 09 Aug 2011

If you're looking for a film with any sort of real substance of originality, this one isn't for you. It's a throwback to all the things we've already seen in the movies; romance, melodrama, comedy, high-falutin' adventure, all of it over-the-top.

Baz Luhrmann embraces the cliches but is sure to add a bit of his own eccentric twists as well (the kangaroo scene is a gasser!). Hugh Jackman stands out in a role that allows him to give the most layered and nuanced performance of the picture.

Nicole Kidman expectedly overacts, often quite comically and with a clear understanding of the tone of the piece. Young Brandon Waters more than holds his own with these two superstars. The editing is a bit choppy and the camera work a bit too showy at times (not that it isn't beautiful).

You can clearly tell what's been bluescreened and what hasn't, but that's a minor quibble. Catherine Martin's sets and costumes are indeed terrific. More jaded critics than I would complain about the length and the ending, but I can't find it in my heart to do so.

I found that I really cared about the characters by the film's end, and not once did I find it boring, which is no small feat for a 2 hour and 45 minute picture. It's schmaltz to be sure, but it left me giddy and delighted nonetheless.