Explore the culture and beauty of Queensland through films. From gripping dramas to classic comedies, there are many films set in Queensland that will give you a taste of what life is like in the region. Let’s take a look at some of the best films inspired by Queensland and explore why they’re so special.
Popular Films
Finding Nemo (2003)
This beloved Pixar film follows an adventurous clownfish named Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks) as he searches for his lost son Nemo (voiced by Alexander Gould). Clownfish Marlin lives in an anemone in the Great Barrier Reef with his mate, Coral, and their eggs. After Coral and nearly all the eggs are eaten by a barracuda, Marlin becomes overprotective of his son Nemo, born of one remaining egg. With its colorful coral reefs and vibrant marine life, it’s no wonder that Queensland served as an inspiration for this classic animated film.
Australia (2008)
In this epic drama directed by Baz Luhrmann, Nicole Kidman stars as Lady Sarah Ashley—an English aristocrat who travels from England to Australia to save her family’s cattle station during World War II. The movie was filmed at various locations across Australia, including Bowen in North Queensland and Ipswich near Brisbane. It’s a sweeping tale of romance and adventure that showcases some beautiful scenery amidst all the drama.
Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002)
Inspired by true events, Rabbit-Proof Fence tells the story of three mixed-race Aboriginal girls who escape from government custody in Western Australia during 1931. Most of the movie was filmed in Carnarvon Gorge—a stunning natural landmark located just south of Rockhampton in Central Queensland—and viewers get to experience firsthand the vast beauty of this region through this powerful cinematic experience.
More Films to Explore!
The Thorn Birds is a 1983 television miniseries about a young girl named Meggie who falls in love with a Catholic priest, Father Ralph de Bricassart, and the consequences of their relationship. It takes place in rural New South Wales, Australia, but was mostly shot in Queensland.
Fields of Fire is a 1987 television film about a group of Australian soldiers sent to fight in Vietnam. It was shot in Queensland and other Australian states.
The Proposition (2005) is a western film about a man named Charlie Burns who is approached by a lawman named Captain Stanley with a proposition: kill his older brother or see his younger brother hang. The film was shot in several Queensland locations, including Mitchell, Longreach, and Winton.
Don’t Tell (2017) is based on the true story of a girl who was sexually abused by her schoolteacher and the subsequent legal battle. The film was shot in several Queensland locations, including the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
Sister Kenny (1946) is a biographical film about Australian nurse Sister Elizabeth Kenny, who revolutionised polio treatment. It was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
Beneath Hill 60 (2010) is a film about the experiences of Australian soldiers who fought in World War I’s Battle of Hill 60. It was shot in Queensland and other Australian states.
A Cry in the Dark (1988) is a film based on the true story of Lindy Chamberlain, an Australian woman who was convicted of murdering her daughter, Azaria, but was later acquitted. The film was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
On the Beach (TV Movie 2000) is a television film about the aftermath of a nuclear war and the efforts of a group of survivors to find safety. It was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
The Irishman (1978) is a drama about an Irish-Australian criminal who rises through the ranks of Sydney’s underworld. It was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
Nim’s Island (2008) is a family film about Nim, a young girl who lives on an island and communicates with Alexandra, a writer. The film was shot in several Queensland locations, including the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
The Craic is a 1999 comedy film about an Irish musician who visits Australia to perform. It was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
Dear Claudia (1999) is a television film about a young girl who writes letters to an unknown person named Claudia and the impact this has on her life. It was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course (2002) is an action-comedy film about Australian wildlife expert Steve Irwin and his attempts to save a crocodile from poachers. The film was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
Two Lost Worlds (1951) is a film about two shipwrecked survivors who end up on a strange island inhabited by dinosaurs. The film was shot in various locations throughout Queensland and Australia.
If you’re looking for ways to explore Queensland without having to leave your couch, these films can be great virtual tours to help provide an insight into what life is like in this part of Australia. So if you have some spare time on your hands and want to learn more about Queensland, why not curl up with one or two of these movies? You’ll be sure to come away with a greater appreciation for both its culture and its natural beauty!