10 Films About Aboriginal Life and Culture

Description: Based on the novel by Thomas Keneally, this film explores the life of Jimmie Blacksmith, an Aboriginal man who turns to violence after enduring racial discrimination and betrayal. It's a grim look at the effects of colonialism on Indigenous people.

Fact: The film was controversial upon release for its portrayal of violence but was praised for its honest depiction of historical events.

Description: Set in early 20th century Australia, this film tells the story of an Aboriginal tracker who leads a group of white policemen on a hunt for an accused Aboriginal man. It delves into themes of justice, racism, and the complex relationship between colonizers and the colonized.

Fact: The film uses a unique narrative style with paintings by Peter Coad to depict the story, blending traditional Aboriginal art with cinematic storytelling.

Description: This film follows the true story of three Aboriginal girls who escape from a government camp where they were forcibly taken to be trained as domestic servants. Their journey home along the rabbit-proof fence is both a physical and emotional odyssey, highlighting the injustices faced by Aboriginal children.

Fact: The film was based on the book "Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence" by Doris Pilkington Garimara, who is the daughter of one of the girls depicted in the story.

Description: This film follows two young Aboriginal individuals on a journey of self-discovery. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for one's roots, set against the backdrop of rural Australia.

Fact: The film was the directorial debut of Ivan Sen, who also wrote the screenplay.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows four Aboriginal women who form a soul group and travel to Vietnam to entertain the troops during the war. It's a celebration of music, culture, and the strength of family ties.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of the Sapphires, an all-female Aboriginal singing group.

Description: Starring David Gulpilil, this film portrays the life of an Aboriginal man who struggles with the loss of his traditional way of life due to government intervention. It's a powerful narrative on cultural identity and the impact of modernization.

Fact: David Gulpilil, who plays Charlie, also co-wrote the screenplay, bringing authenticity to the character's experiences.

Description: Set in 1929 Australia, this film tells the story of an Aboriginal stockman who kills a white man in self-defense, leading to a manhunt. It's a stark examination of racial tensions and justice in the outback.

Fact: The film was shot in the Northern Territory, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.

Description: This film follows a white girl and her brother who are stranded in the Australian outback and are helped by an Aboriginal boy on his "walkabout," a rite of passage. It's a story of survival, cultural clash, and the beauty of the Australian landscape.

Fact: The film was shot in the Northern Territory and features a mix of English and Aboriginal languages, highlighting the cultural exchange between characters.

Description: This film is a unique blend of documentary and fiction, set in Arnhem Land, Australia. It tells a story within a story, using both black-and-white and color to differentiate between the present and the past, exploring Aboriginal law, love, and tradition.

Fact: It was the first feature film to be entirely shot in an Aboriginal language, Yolngu Matha.

Description: This Australian drama explores the lives of two young Aboriginal people from a remote community who flee to Alice Springs after a tragic event. It's a poignant look at love, survival, and the harsh realities of urban life for Indigenous youth.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in Warlpiri and English, reflecting the linguistic diversity of Aboriginal communities.