Watch Tudawali

Tudawali is a 1987 Australian film directed by Steve Jodrell, based on the true story of the Indigenous Australian actor who starred in the films and television shows of the mid-twentieth century. The film is a moving tribute to the life of this pioneering figure in Australian cinema, who was instrumental in bringing Indigenous stories and perspectives onto the big screen.

Ernie Dingo stars as Tudawali, whose real name was Robert Tudawali. The film follows his rise to fame in the 1950s and 60s, playing a variety of roles in Australian film and television, and his struggles with racism and discrimination. Peter Fisher plays Paul Damien, a white film director who takes Tudawali under his wing and becomes his friend and mentor. Charles 'Bud' Tingwell plays Ian Mackenzie, a fellow actor and friend of Tudawali's, while Jedda Cole plays Julia, a young Indigenous woman who becomes Tudawali's love interest.

The film skillfully weaves together Tudawali's personal story with the wider social and political context of the time. It is set against the backdrop of the White Australia policy, which sought to exclude non-white immigrants from the country, and the struggle for Indigenous rights and recognition. The film shows how Tudawali used his fame and influence to speak out against these injustices and to promote the cause of Indigenous people in Australia.

One of the film's major themes is the tension between Tudawali's Indigenous identity and his status as a public figure. He struggles to balance his desire to be true to his culture and heritage with the demands of a career in the entertainment industry, which often requires him to play stereotypical roles that reinforce negative stereotypes about Indigenous people. The film shows how Tudawali negotiates this tension, and the impact it has on his personal life and relationships.

Another key theme of the film is the power of friendship and solidarity in the face of adversity. Tudawali and his fellow actors and friends stick together through thick and thin, supporting each other through the ups and downs of life in the entertainment industry and navigating the challenges of racism and discrimination. The film shows how their bonds of friendship and solidarity help them to survive and thrive in the face of these challenges.

Overall, Tudawali is a powerful and engaging film that tells an important story about an overlooked figure in Australian cinema history. It is a testament to the resilience, talent, and courage of Tudawali and his fellow Indigenous actors, who broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of Indigenous performers. With its strong performances, compelling narrative, and important social and political themes, Tudawali is a must-see for anyone interested in Australian cinema, Indigenous culture, or social justice.

Tudawali is a 1987 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.