Portable Power Packs for Aussies

Certainly, there's no doubt about who's in charge when watching the early reels of Australia. This could only be a film by Baz Luhrmann, that wacky purveyor of all things over-the-top. In this old-fashioned, 165-minute hymn to his native continent, Luhrmann has crafted a sweeping epic that is quintessentially his own.

From the very first frame, the director's signature style is on full display. Vibrant colors, exaggerated performances, and a frenetic editing pace all come together to create a cinematic experience that is both dazzling and exhausting. Luhrmann's take on the land Down Under is a far cry from the stoic, rugged landscapes often associated with Australian cinema. Instead, he presents a vision that is larger-than-life, a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are constantly blurred.

At the heart of the film is a classic love story, set against the backdrop of World War II. Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman play Lady Sarah Ashley and The Drover, two strangers who are thrust together by circumstance and forced to navigate the treacherous terrain of the Northern Territory. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their on-screen partnership is one of the film's greatest strengths.

Yet, for all its grand romantic gestures and sweeping set pieces, Australia never quite manages to escape the shadow of its creator's own ego. Luhrmann's affinity for the theatrical and the excessive can be both a blessing and a curse, and in this case, it often feels like the director is more interested in showcasing his own virtuosity than in serving the story.

The film's plot, which follows Lady Sarah's efforts to save her late husband's cattle ranch from the greedy clutches of a corporate rival, is often overshadowed by the sheer spectacle on display. Luhrmann's penchant for the bombastic can be intoxicating, but it can also be exhausting, and at times, the audience may find themselves longing for a more restrained approach.

Despite these flaws, however, Australia remains a captivating and visually stunning cinematic experience. Luhrmann's love for his homeland is palpable, and his ability to craft a sweeping, emotionally resonant narrative is undeniable. The film's final act, in particular, is a triumph, as the director weaves together the various strands of the story into a powerful and poignant conclusion.

Ultimately, Australia is a film that demands a certain level of surrender from its audience. Luhrmann's vision is uncompromising and unapologetic, and those who are willing to embrace its excesses will be rewarded with a cinematic experience that is both exhilarating and deeply moving. It may not be a perfect film, but it is most certainly a Baz Luhrmann film, and that is no small feat.

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