So I know its name could also be The NeverEnding Story Part IV, but after having seen Australia, I don't see why the reviews and box office are the way they are. Why aren't more people see this thing? I thought people loved romantic epics? I mean America saw Titanic all the way to $600 million domestic, why don't they love Australia? Is it the accents? Is it the non-emotive, cold, porcelain-shelled Kidman? What is it?
Baz Luhrman crafted a beautifully shot, spectacularly designed, epic film based on his wonderful country of origin. Peter Jackson celebrated New Zealand, and you gave him an Oscar for it. What does Luhrman get? A hard time from critics and audiences it seems. The acting was pretty exceptional for the most part. Hugh Jackman is one of those guys that if you see cry, you just might. I'm a man who doesn't cry, but something in the way Jackman emotes makes you sad. It's somewhat like Mel Gibson's ability to communicate pain to you in torture scenes--it just connects.
I just don't get why people didn't like it. The film's got action, adventure, romance, excitement. Yes, it's way overlong and could have ended six different times. But if you watch the entire film, you can't find any part of it that is bad. It's not my favorite movie of the year, but after watching it, nothing in me said "busted Oscar bait." So I challenge you faithful Movie Press audience to see this film and give it a chance. Don't run away from the lengthy run time, don't fret about funny accents or questionable subject matter. I'm pretty sure that with a tough bladder and an open mind, you might just come out of this thing a happy movie watcher.
To date Australia has grossed slightly over $23 million on its $130 million dollar budget.
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