In a surprising move, the 2008 film “Australia” made an unexpected return to the screens through Hulu in November 2023. However, what appeared to be an attempt to revive a nearly two-decade-old movie has resulted in something beyond a simple cash grab.
Both iterations revolve around the tale of Lady Sarah Ashley, portrayed by Nicole Kidman, and the enigmatic Drover, played by Hugh Jackman, set against the backdrop of Australia’s Outback pre-World War II. While the original film aimed for an epic Gone with the Wind style, it fell short of expectations. Now, Hulu has granted director Baz Luhrmann the opportunity to revisit this narrative, yet the resulting miniseries has left viewers questioning its authenticity.
The decision to transform “Australia” into “Faraway Downs,” currently streaming on Hulu, might seem like a money-making venture. However, it was a decision that had been brewing for some time. During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Baz Luhrmann sought solace from the postponement of his Elvis Presley biopic by revisiting his 2008 epic. While the film found appreciation in Europe, it faced criticism elsewhere. American critics labeled it as bloated and lacking direction, while Australian reviews focused on its representation of the “Stolen Generation,” a sensitive issue in local history.
Despite its shortcomings, “Australia” received renewed attention in light of the decade’s revelations regarding the systemic abuse faced by Indigenous communities globally. This shift in societal consciousness might finally allow Luhrmann to present the story he initially envisioned, shedding light on an often overlooked chapter of history.
“Faraway Downs” is not just a rehash of “Australia.” It explores new footage, rearranging the narrative to present a different story structure. Luhrmann compared the format to music production, emphasizing that episodic storytelling allows for deviations from the main plot and a deeper exploration of minor moments. The series incorporates approximately 40 minutes of unseen content, making previously minor scenes pivotal to the storyline. Both Kidman and Jackman contributed new dialogue, bridging the nearly two-decade gap between shoots.
The remixing of this tale includes minor changes alongside a significant storyline adjustment that could surprise fans. The conclusion of “Faraway Downs” diverges from the cozy ending of “Australia.” If the original film was your comfort, be prepared for a reimagined narrative in this episodic journey.
All six episodes of “Faraway Downs” are available for viewing on Hulu.