Australia (Blu-ray Disc, 2009, Checkpoint; Sensormatic; Widescreen)

Features Actors:Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman,Bryan Brown,David Wenham & Brandon Walters
Running Time:165 Min.
Rating: PG-13

Nicole Kidman is Lady Sarah Ashley, a cash-strapped aristocrat who suspects her bush-hopping husband is up to no good in Australia, and flies down to confront him. Her driver from the city to the ranch is Drover (Hugh Jackman), an independent contractor of sorts that Lady Ashley convinces to stay on board after she discovers her husband has been murdered by an Aborigine tribesman and her ranch hand, Neil Fletcher (David Wenham), is a mole for local cattle baron King Carney (Bryan Brown). Carney wants Lady Ashley’s land, but Fletcher just wants revenge, and neither is above exploiting the welfare of Ashley’s mixed-race “creamer” boy Nullah (Brandon Walters) in order to get her to knuckle under. (Mixed-race children were separated from society at the time as a means of keeping the blood lines pure.) But Lady Ashley proves to be a ferocious competitor, winning the hearts of Australia’s more free-spirited elite, and ultimately the love of the loveless Drover.The military's buying cattle in Darwin, but with the foreman gone, Sarah isn't going to get her herd there, at least not without the help of Drover (Hugh Jackman, Van Helsing), a drover (naturally), and the rest of the station hands, including a surprisingly adept Nullah.Sarah's troubles aren't over when the cattle reach Darwin, though. She has to deal with the treacherous Fletcher and authorities who want to take Nullah away. Meanwhile, Japanese planes are headed for Darwin.
That’s when World War II arrives on their doorstep.

A must see in the land down under!Great acting, the little boy Nullah in this film will steal your heart and also gives an amazing performance.Hope this helps you decide.Thanks for reading! :)

AUSTRALIA Starring NICOLE KIDMAN & HUGH JACKMAN is a Fantastic EPIC FILM. This Film is did Not Get the Proper attention it truly deserved in the U.S. as a work which not only delights the senses, but also as touches the heart in gripping ways, which would bring even the most stoic ogre to tears. AUSTRALIA is also a Lesson in world History, that includes the attack on Mission Island as well as the mainland of Australia during World War II, when it came under attack for the first time in its history. Somehow we tend to forget that Australia suffered heavy war casualties like so many other countries during the war. This great film also teaches us about the Australian Culture in terms of class divisions, and the racism that once existed, especially in terms of the Indigenous Aboriginal Australians. The character of "King George" an Australian native Aborigine is the Spirit behind much of "Australia," which is one of Integrity and Honor. The importance of the Cattle industry in Australia, and the corruption that once existed there within it, are also well exposed. The movie ties together history, culture, love of family and of country, incredible character development, and a classic work that will keep you on the edge of your seat with a box of tissues, and also to feel tremendous trepidation, as well as elation in your heart at many moments. And let's give due credit to NICOLE KIDMAN; not only is she one of the Most Gorgeous women on the face of this planet, and a delight to watch, but she is intelligent, poised, fearless and powerful. Men, you will find yourself wishing you were Hugh Jackman, time and time again when you watch this film. Not only is he macho-strong and cool, and a real man, but he's also sensitive enough to get the best prize - Nicole Kidman who is fondly referred to in the wonderful film as "Mrs. Boss." If you miss this film, you are missing alot !

I decided to purchase this Blu ray disc based on previous experience with Baz Luhrmann films (Moulin Rouge, Strictly Ballroom). No regrets as there is inventive and beautiful cinematography and great sound that takes full advantage of the Blu ray format. It is a long film at just under three hours, needed to develop several detailed subplots, but it maintains your attention. Solid performances from Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. The opening sequences might make you believe this would a light, comic adventure, but the storyline develops into serious drama with such events as the Japanese bombing of Darwin in World War II, and the Australian attempts to assimilate the aborigines into their culture, for which they apologized in 2008. A very entertaining film, well worth adding to your Blu ray collection. Should have had a better theatrical run, but I feel will do better in disc sales.

Australia is a great combination of drama, romance, and historical content, with a touch of action. Characters were selected perfectly and performances were superb. I watched an interview with Nicole Kidman who stated that she was not happy with her performance in Australia. Although she never felt she was able to connect with her character as she would have liked, I don't believe that disconnect was obvious from a viewer's perception.
The story was creative and informative of native ways and I especially enjoyed the relationship between wealthy Brit and low-maintenance drover. Being a people-watcher with a degree in Psychology the culture, history, and social connect was appealing to me. The movie is fairly long and the first time you watch it you think it's going to end 5 times. Each time an ending would make sense and would not detract from the purposefulness of the movie. That is hard to find.
The main theme of the movie, to me, is the sociocultural need and fulfillment the human race gets from others of the human race. It highlights how humans have the innate desire to love others regardless of differences as well as the ability to hate and destroy when a human soul found empty and dark due to selfishness and self-hate.
I only purchase movies if they have a theme or story that exhibits a strong moral. I purchased this movie on Blu-ray.

This is a fast-moving flick with a strong story line, wonderful actors, humor, drama and action aplenty set in the vibrant, rich expanse of of the continent of Australia. Rated-PG 13 primarily for limited violence and a little strong language, this is a movie I would gladly recommend to most families with children over about the age of eight or so.

Along with an exciting feel-good movie, important historical issues and the strength of a beautiful culture are sure to spark worthwhile discussion. This movie will surely remain a family favorite of ours for years to come.