Watch Backroads

Backroads is a 1977 Australian road drama film directed by Phillip Noyce, and stars Bill Hunter, Gary Foley, and Zac Martin. The movie follows the unlikely pairing of two men from different backgrounds - Jack (Bill Hunter), a white ex-convict, and Gary (Gary Foley), an Aboriginal youth - as they travel through the wild and rugged terrain of the Australian Outback.

The film begins with Jack being released from prison, where he meets Gary who is hitchhiking. Jack offers Gary a ride, and thus begins their journey together. Initially, the two men resent each other's company, with Jack being openly racist towards Gary, who is also a political activist. Gary, in turn, dislikes Jack for his past criminal record, and they engage in frequent arguments and fights.

As they drive through the Outback, the scenery becomes increasingly desolate and barren, mirroring the tension between the two men. However, as they continue their journey, they begin to form a reluctant friendship, gradually breaking down the barriers that divide them. As they share their stories, they realize that they are not so different from each other after all.

The movie explores themes of race relations, identity, and the search for redemption. Jack, who has been ostracized from society due to his criminal record, is presented with an opportunity to start anew and leave his troubled past behind. Gary, on the other hand, struggles to reconcile his Aboriginal heritage with his Western education, and his activism is borne out of a need to assert his identity in a society that has marginalized his people.

Throughout the movie, the stunning landscape of the Australian Outback serves as a backdrop to the ongoing drama. The vast, sprawling vistas emphasize the characters' sense of isolation and helplessness, while the harsh climate and unpredictable terrain highlight the perilous nature of their journey. Noyce masterfully captures the beauty and danger of the Outback, setting the mood for an intense and gripping film.

The performances from the lead actors are excellent, particularly Bill Hunter's portrayal of Jack. He brings to life a complex and flawed character, who is at once vulnerable and menacing. Gary Foley also shines as Gary, portraying him with a quiet strength and determination that is both inspiring and moving.

Overall, Backroads is a powerful and thought-provoking film that is as relevant now as it was over forty years ago. The movie offers a glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Australian Outback, while also highlighting the challenges faced by Indigenous Australians and the ongoing struggle for equality. It is a testament to the enduring power of cinema and a must-see for anyone interested in Australian cinema or social justice issues.