This course spans the development of Australian film from its early achievements before 1920 to its internationalisation circa 1980 and beyond. Its primary focus is the cultural study of Australian film, with particular attention to changing depictions of the bush and the city, of Aboriginal, Australian and immigrant men and women, of Australian nationalism, and of our myths and heroes. The history of Australian film itself and its significant turning points, from the innovations of the silent era to later developments in art films, will also be a continuing consideration. Films chosen for study, such as The Sentimental Bloke, The Rats of Tobruk, Jedda, Picnic at Hanging Rock, Breaker Morant, Mad Max, Hightide, Bedevil, Silver City, Romper Stomper and The Piano will represent the work of major directors, producers and script writers, and screenings of the principal films will be supplemented by introductory talks.
