Movies and Shows Like The Drover’s Wife: The Legend of Molly Johnson

Description: A searing indictment of racism and colonialism, following a mixed-race Aboriginal man driven to violence by systemic oppression. The film's unflinching look at injustice and its tragic protagonist make it a compelling parallel.

Fact: It was the first Australian film to be selected for competition at the Cannes Film Festival. The story is based on a novel inspired by real events.

Description: A powerful allegory of colonialism and racial tension, set in the Australian wilderness. The film's minimalist storytelling and focus on the dynamics between its characters reflect a deep engagement with historical and moral questions.

Fact: The film uses a unique narrative device where the story is punctuated by paintings and songs. It was shot in the Flinders Ranges, known for its rugged and timeless landscape.

Description: A poignant story of three Aboriginal girls escaping a government settlement to return home, highlighting themes of displacement and resilience. The film's emotional depth and historical significance resonate strongly with narratives of survival and resistance.

Fact: The film is based on a true story, and the real-life Molly Craig, one of the girls, served as a consultant. It brought widespread attention to the Stolen Generations in Australia.

Description: A brutal and poetic Western set in the Australian outback, exploring themes of colonialism, violence, and survival. The stark visual style and morally complex characters mirror the harsh realities of frontier life.

Fact: The screenplay was written by musician Nick Cave, known for his dark and lyrical storytelling. The film was shot in the remote Queensland outback, adding to its authentic and desolate atmosphere.

Description: A visually stunning outback Western about a young Afghan cameleer and a wanted man forming an unlikely alliance. The film's exploration of cultural collision and survival in a harsh landscape echoes similar themes.

Fact: The film highlights the often-overlooked history of Afghan cameleers in Australia. It was shot in the Western Australian desert, using natural light to enhance its authenticity.

Description: A slow-burning crime drama set in rural Australia, blending noir elements with indigenous perspectives. The film's exploration of isolation and systemic injustice mirrors similar thematic concerns.

Fact: The film spawned a successful TV series of the same name. It was shot in Winton, Queensland, a town known for its rugged landscapes.

Description: A dystopian Western set in a near-future Australia, focusing on a man's relentless pursuit of what was stolen from him. The film's bleak atmosphere and themes of vengeance and survival create a strong parallel.

Fact: The film was shot in the harsh South Australian outback, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. It features a minimalist script, relying heavily on visual storytelling.

Description: A harrowing tale of revenge and resilience set in colonial Tasmania, featuring a strong female protagonist navigating a world of brutality and oppression. The film's unflinching portrayal of historical violence and its emotional intensity are key similarities.

Fact: The film sparked controversy for its graphic depictions of violence, but was praised for its historical accuracy. It was the first Australian film to win the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival.

Description: A reimagining of the infamous outlaw Ned Kelly's life, blending historical drama with a gritty, anarchic energy. The film's exploration of rebellion against authority and its raw, visceral style align closely with the themes of resistance and survival.

Fact: The film is based on Peter Carey's Booker Prize-winning novel. It features a punk-inspired aesthetic, diverging from traditional period drama conventions.

Description: A gritty crime thriller set in the Australian outback, delving into corruption and indigenous land rights. The film's atmospheric tension and moral complexity align with narratives of justice and survival.

Fact: It is a sequel to 'Mystery Road,' but stands alone as its own story. The film's cinematography captures the vast, eerie beauty of the outback.