If you were captivated by the raw intensity and gripping storytelling of Sweet Country (2018), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 movies and shows that share its themes of justice, survival, and the harsh realities of frontier life. Whether you loved its historical depth or its unflinching portrayal of conflict, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Walkabout (1971)
Description: A visually stunning and meditative journey through the Australian desert, exploring themes of survival, cultural clash, and the connection to land.
Fact: The film features minimal dialogue, relying heavily on its striking cinematography to tell the story. It was shot in the remote regions of South Australia, capturing the untouched beauty of the landscape.


The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1978)
Description: A searing indictment of racism and colonialism, following an Indigenous man's violent rebellion against systemic oppression.
Fact: The film is based on the 1972 novel by Thomas Keneally, which was inspired by true events. It was one of the first Australian films to gain international recognition for its bold storytelling.


The Tracker (2002)
Description: A powerful examination of racial tensions and justice in the Australian wilderness, with a focus on the dynamics between an Indigenous tracker and colonial authorities.
Fact: The film uses a unique storytelling approach, blending song and narration to guide the narrative. It was shot in the Flinders Ranges, known for its rugged beauty.


Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002)
Description: A harrowing true story of Indigenous resilience and survival against the backdrop of forced assimilation policies, set in the vast Australian landscape.
Fact: The film is based on the book 'Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence' by Doris Pilkington Garimara, which recounts her mother's escape from a government settlement. The real rabbit-proof fence stretches over 1,500 miles across Australia.


The Proposition (2005)
Description: A brutal and poetic exploration of colonialism and violence in the Australian outback, featuring stark landscapes and morally complex characters.
Fact: The screenplay was written by musician Nick Cave, known for his dark and lyrical storytelling. The film was shot in the harsh conditions of the Queensland outback, adding to its raw authenticity.


The Furnace (2020)
Description: A historical drama set in the Australian outback, exploring themes of cultural exchange, survival, and the harsh realities of colonial expansion.
Fact: The film features dialogue in Afghan Persian and Indigenous languages, highlighting the multicultural history of Australia. It was shot in the remote regions of Western Australia, capturing the unforgiving beauty of the desert.


Mystery Road (2013)
Description: A slow-burning crime drama set in rural Australia, blending Indigenous perspectives with a noir-inspired investigation into systemic injustice.
Fact: The film spawned a successful TV series of the same name, expanding its universe. It was shot in Winton, Queensland, a town known for its stark and cinematic landscapes.


The Rover (2014)
Description: A bleak and atmospheric tale set in a post-apocalyptic Australian outback, focusing on themes of isolation, survival, and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The film's dystopian setting was created by filming in the harsh, sun-scorched landscapes of South Australia. The sparse dialogue and tense atmosphere were inspired by classic Westerns.


The Nightingale (2018)
Description: A visceral and unflinching portrayal of revenge and trauma in colonial Tasmania, with a strong focus on the brutality faced by Indigenous people and women.
Fact: The film faced controversy for its graphic depictions of violence, but was praised for its historical accuracy. It was shot entirely on location in Tasmania, using natural light to enhance its raw feel.


Goldstone (2016)
Description: A gripping crime thriller set in the Australian outback, delving into corruption, Indigenous rights, and the clash between modernity and tradition.
Fact: The film is a sequel to 'Mystery Road' but stands on its own as a self-contained story. It was shot in the rugged terrain of Queensland, with the landscape playing a central role in the narrative.
