Watch Wild Australia: The Edge

Wild Australia: The Edge is a 1996 documentary film directed by Sorrel Wilby that showcases the unique beauty and extreme conditions of Australia's northern coast. Narrated by Australian actor Hugo Weaving, the documentary offers a mesmerizing glance at the rugged landscape, the diverse range of flora and fauna thriving under the sun, and the unique indigenous culture of the region.

The film begins with an overview of the Northern Territories of Australia, exploring the vast wetlands, rugged coastlines, and the arid, isolated wilderness of the outback. It unravels the extraordinary life forms that have adapted to the harsh and unpredictable climate, and the unique ecosystem that has evolved over millions of years. The camera captures stunning images of saltwater crocodiles, dugongs, sea turtles, humpback whales, and numerous bird species that inhabit the region.

The documentaries showcase the unique terrain of the Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage-listed area, with a landscape that shifts from wetlands to rocky cliffs and from lush forests to vast savannahs. The park is home to a diverse range of animals, including wallabies, quolls, echidnas, and dingoes. The documentary also delves into the intricate relationship between the Aboriginal people and the land they have inhabited for thousands of years. It showcases their rich culture, ancient rock art, and their knowledge of bush medicine and how they have sustained themselves for generations.

Wild Australia: The Edge then explores the remote reaches of Cape York Peninsula, the northernmost tip of Australia. The Peninsula is home to the Cape York Hercules moth, one of the largest moths in the world, and the palm cockatoo, a rare bird that uses drumming to communicate. The film also features the unique geological formation, the 'Glass House Mountains,' that jut out of the flat coastal plain.

The documentary showcases the Torres Strait Islands, a group of islands that stretches from Papua New Guinea to the mainland of Australia. The islands are situated in the shallow waters of the Torres Strait between the two countries and have a rich maritime culture. The Islanders are known for their seafaring prowess and their pearl-diving expertise. The film highlights the unique underwater life that thrives in the shallow waters and the threats to its survival, such as overfishing and climate change.

The final part of the documentary explores the rugged coastline of Western Australia, with its towering cliffs and crashing waves. The area is known for its extraordinary reefs and its marine life, including the rare leafy seadragon, the dugongs, and the sea lions. The coastline is also a popular destination for surfers, and the film features breathtaking footage of surfers riding the massive swells.

Overall, Wild Australia: The Edge is a stunning visual journey into the unique and varied landscapes of Australia's northern coast. The documentary's narration by Hugo Weaving is a delight, and the high-quality visuals are jaw-dropping throughout. The film offers an excellent mix of natural history, cultural significance, and adventure, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in Australia's rugged beauty and unique biodiversity.

Wild Australia: The Edge is a 1996 documentary with a runtime of 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.