If you loved the raw, emotional storytelling of Redfern Now (2012), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 gripping movies and shows that share its powerful themes of Indigenous Australian life, social struggles, and heartfelt drama. Whether you're looking for more authentic narratives or compelling character-driven stories, these picks will keep you hooked.

Wakefield (2021)
Description: A psychological drama set in a mental health facility, examining fragile human connections and the thin lines between sanity and madness.
Fact: The series was filmed at a decommissioned psychiatric hospital. Its circular narrative structure mirrors its themes of mental health cycles.


Black Snow (2023)
Description: A cold case mystery unraveling in a multicultural Australian community, exploring intergenerational trauma and cultural preservation through its narrative.
Fact: The series marks the first Australian drama to feature Torres Strait Islander language throughout its dialogue. It's set across two distinct time periods.


Mystery Road (2013)
Description: This crime drama explores Indigenous Australian perspectives within a gripping mystery, blending cultural themes with a slow-burning investigative narrative.
Fact: The film spawned two sequels and a TV series, expanding its gritty outback crime universe. It was shot on location in Queensland's rugged landscapes.


Cleverman (2016)
Description: A genre-bending series that uses sci-fi allegory to examine Indigenous identity and social inequality, featuring supernatural elements rooted in Aboriginal mythology.
Fact: The show's concept was developed over nearly a decade before production. Its creature designs were inspired by traditional Aboriginal art forms.


The Secret Daughter (2016)
Description: A family drama exploring identity and belonging through music, featuring strong Indigenous characters navigating complex personal and cultural relationships.
Fact: The show's soundtrack features original songs performed by the lead actress. It was partially filmed in rural New South Wales.


Deep Water (2016)
Description: A crime thriller addressing LGBTQ+ experiences and social prejudice, set against Sydney's coastal landscapes with a focus on marginalized communities.
Fact: The series was inspired by real unsolved hate crimes. It features extensive location shooting around Sydney's eastern beaches.


Total Control (2019)
Description: A political drama centered on an Indigenous woman navigating the corridors of power, addressing contemporary issues of representation and systemic barriers.
Fact: The series was originally titled 'Black B*tch' before being renamed for international markets. It features authentic parliamentary filming locations.


Stateless (2020)
Description: A dramatic exploration of Australia's immigration detention system, weaving multiple perspectives to examine institutional power and human rights.
Fact: The series was co-created by actress Cate Blanchett. Its fictional detention center was built on an actual former prison site.


Glitch (2015)
Description: A supernatural mystery set in a small country town, blending paranormal elements with deep explorations of community and second chances.
Fact: The show's creators researched numerous near-death experiences for authenticity. Its rural setting becomes almost a character itself.
