Review of Quigley Down Under (1990) by Kai82 — 11 Oct 2020

A Western set in Australia is definitely unique. The Australian large estate owner Elliot Marsten played by Alan Rickman is searching a marksman to get rid of the Dingo plague on his lands. Matthew Quigley an American buffalo hunter and marksman played by Tom Selleck answers his request and arrives in Australia.

There he meets the seemingly mad woman Cora played by Laura San Giacomo. Soon after proving his remarkable shooting skills it will be revealed that his employer is up to more sinister things. More would be spoilers that ruin the movie.

It has a unique setting and engaging story. As it progresses you learn more about the characters, their motives / backstories and Australian history. The main roles are set perfectly with Alan Rickman, Tom Selleck and Laura San Giacomo.

They work or better said interact well together. This good chemistry enhances this movie. In addition it is also a good Western with intense shoot outs and a clever resolve. There is a bit of dry humor in this movie that also works well especially at the ending.

The sets are good and I recently discovered that it was also filmed completely in Australia. Because it was not a hit a the box office and maybe not mainstream enough it is forgotten. Overall this is a movie that scores with its unique setting and characters / actors.

Without this it would be an average movie. Worth watching and discussing. Bonus knowledge and small spoilers: The Australian Aborigines suffered heavily from the white settlers. It is equivalent to native Americans.

And some would even say crueler.. You can read about this but is is sad, depressing and gruesome. Be warned it is nightmare fueling material.