Australia has consistently excelled in the realm of cinema. From sweeping dramas and gritty realism to electrifying action and soul-stirring biopics, Australian films have delivered unforgettable stories and standout performances. Some were made entirely on home soil, while others used Australian talent and production to shine on the global stage. Here’s a look at 10 of the highest-rated Australian movies that captured the hearts of locals and left a mark on international audiences.
Crocodile Dundee (1986)
It’s impossible to discuss iconic Australian films without mentioning Crocodile Dundee. The film stars Paul Hogan as the rugged Mick Dundee, a bushman from the Outback who finds himself navigating the chaos of New York City. A brilliant mix of action, comedy, and cultural contrasts, this film remains Australia’s highest-grossing movie ever and helped define how the world saw Aussie cinema, making it a pop culture milestone.
 Elvis (2022)
Despite being technically an international production, Elvis embodies Australian pride in numerous aspects. Directed by Baz Luhrmann and filmed entirely in Queensland, this dazzling biopic of Elvis Presley stars Austin Butler in a critically acclaimed performance. Luhrmann’s signature flair brought the King of Rock to life in a film that became both a commercial hit and an award contender. Australia’s contribution to this blockbuster cannot be overstated.
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Another Baz Luhrmann gem, Moulin Rouge! may be set in Paris, but it was filmed in Sydney and features the bold, maximalist style the director is known for. Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor deliver electric performances in this visually explosive musical. It’s a love story drenched in colour, heartbreak, and music, and it has cemented its place in the pantheon of Australian-made films that became global sensations.
My Brilliant Career (1979)
Adapted from Miles Franklin’s novel, My Brilliant Career follows a fiercely independent young woman, Sybylla Melvyn, as she rejects societal expectations in late 19th-century Australia. Judy Davis gives a breakout performance in this literary period drama, which remains a staple of Australian schools’ curricula. Fans of Little Women or Pride and Prejudice with an Aussie twist should definitely watch this.
The Babadook (2014)
Who says Australians aren’t good at horror? The Babadook proves otherwise. Set in Adelaide, this psychological thriller follows a widowed mother and her troubled son as they’re haunted by a terrifying creature from a children’s book. The film gained international acclaim for its eerie atmosphere and emotional depth, becoming a surprise cult hit and proving that Australian horror films can rival Hollywood’s best.
Hacksaw Ridge (2016)
Directed by Mel Gibson and shot in Australia, Hacksaw Ridge tells the true story of Desmond Doss, a U.S. army medic who saved dozens of lives in WWII without ever carrying a weapon. Starring Andrew Garfield, the film earned six Oscar nominations and widespread praise for its powerful storytelling and unflinching war scenes. It’s one of the finest examples of Australian war films reaching global acclaim.
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Mad Max: Fury Road isn’t just an action movie—it’s a full-blown cinematic spectacle. Directed by George Miller and shot in the Namibian desert with a largely Australian crew, the film stars Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron in a high-octane dystopian tale. It raked in six Academy Awards and still holds the title as the highest-rated Australian film globally. With jaw-dropping visuals and a relentless pace, it’s an adrenaline rush from start to finish.
Candy (2006)
Based on Luke Davies’ novel, Candy offers a raw look into the lives of a young couple battling heroin addiction. Heath Ledger and Abbie Cornish give haunting performances in this emotionally charged drama. The film explores love, addiction, and self-destruction with brutal honesty, making it a standout in the canon of Australian drama films.
Looking for Alibrandi (2000)
A classic coming-of-age story, Looking for Alibrandi is based on Melina Marchetta’s beloved novel. Set in 1990s Sydney, the film follows Josie, a high-achieving Italian-Australian teenager navigating love, identity, and family secrets. The film resonated with audiences due to its cultural authenticity and emotional relatability, and it continues to serve as a significant influence for numerous young Australians.
Lion (2017)
Lion is the emotionally stirring story of Saroo Brierley, who was adopted by an Australian couple after being separated from his family in India. Played by Dev Patel, Saroo uses Google Earth to find his birth mother years later. With unforgettable performances from Nicole Kidman and David Wenham, this BAFTA-winning film showcases the emotional depth of Australian biographical films and their global reach.
