Lexi Webster
Australian films have been making their way to the USA since the early 20th century, with the 1906 production of The Story of the Kelly Gang, arguably the world's first feature film. Since then, Australian films have received international recognition, with many Australian actors and filmmakers establishing lucrative careers in larger film-producing centres such as the US. However, cultural differences between Australian and US moviegoers exist, and these differences play a role in the distribution and reception of Australian films in the US market.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cultural differences between Australian and US moviegoers | Australian moviegoers are less receptive to Hollywood action/adventure movies than US audiences |
| Comedies, documentaries, dramas, and music/event films perform better in Australia than in the US | |
| Timing of releases | Typically a 38-day interval between US and Australian release dates |
| The gap is shorter for action/adventure, comedies, and animation | |
| The gap is longer for independent titles, including documentaries | |
| The 10% rule | The average ratio of Australian dollar earnings for US movies to their US box office revenues |
| No longer considered accurate | |
| 20th Century Fox international president Andrew Cripps still relies on the 10% rule | |
| US-centric stories | US-centric stories like Lone Survivor tap into US support of their armed forces/heroism |
| Australian films | Often "indie" due to a lack of private investment |
| Funded at least in part by Screen Australia or state funding bodies | |
| Tend to have better writing and representation of disabled/neurodivergent people | |
| Discuss social issues in a progressive and humorous manner | |
| Often centre around more down-to-earth characters and actors | |
| Australian talent | Many Australian actors and filmmakers have established lucrative careers in the US |
| Examples include Mel Gibson, Peter Weir, David Williamson, and Baz Luhrmann | |
| Australian tax incentives | Australia has attracted international productions due to its talented cast and crews, world-class infrastructure, and tax incentives |
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What You'll Learn
Differences in cultural preferences
Australia and the USA have distinct cultural preferences, and these differences are reflected in their respective film industries.
Firstly, there is a divergence in the types of films that appeal to Australian and American audiences. Australian moviegoers tend to favour comedies, documentaries, dramas, and music/event films, whereas US audiences show greater enthusiasm for Hollywood action/adventure movies. This contrast is exemplified by the success of certain films in each market; for instance, the action-adventure film "Lone Survivor" achieved a high conversion rate in the US due to its US-centric story and celebration of American heroism, but it underperformed in Australia, where audiences are less receptive to overt flag-waving films.
Secondly, the film industries themselves differ significantly. The Australian film industry is relatively small and relies heavily on grants and government funding, resulting in a higher proportion of "indie" films with social value. In contrast, the US industry is dominated by large private production houses and significant corporate and Christian investors, leading to a focus on blockbuster productions that cater to wider audiences and investors.
Thirdly, cultural attitudes towards work and profit vary between the two countries. Australians value "mateship" and loyalty to colleagues, family, and friends, whereas Americans may prioritise performance and profit, with a faster-paced work culture driven by the belief that "time is money". This cultural difference extends to the film industry, where Australian filmmakers might feel less pressured by time constraints and profit expectations, allowing for a more relaxed and artistic approach.
Additionally, the countries differ in their travel habits, with Australians more likely to travel overseas at a young age, leading to a broader worldview. This could influence the types of stories and themes that resonate with Australian filmmakers and audiences, potentially making their films more globally appealing.
Finally, there are variations in humour and communication styles. Australians are known for their dry and perverse sense of humour, often saying the opposite of what they mean, while Americans favour explicit communication, and their irony can sometimes fall flat. This cultural difference could impact how Australian films are perceived by US audiences, potentially affecting their commercial success.
In conclusion, while Australia and the USA share a common language, their cultural differences are significant and impact the film industries in each country, from the types of films produced to the pace and priorities of their respective industries.
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Timing of film releases
The timing of film releases plays a crucial role in the success of Australian films in the USA. Historically, there has been a time lag between US and Australian release dates, with a typical interval of around 38 days. This gap is influenced by various factors, including the competitive landscape, cultural significance, and piracy concerns. Distributors also consider scheduling to avoid clashes with Hollywood blockbusters.
The time lag between US and Australian film releases is a well-known phenomenon. On average, there is a 38-day gap between the two markets, as observed in a research paper titled 'Understanding the dynamics between the United States and Australian film markets: testing the "10% rule."' This time lag may be attributed to distributors strategically timing their releases to find gaps in the schedule outside of periods dominated by major Hollywood productions.
However, the duration of the delay varies across different genres. Action/adventure films, comedies, and animations tend to have shorter intervals, while independent titles, including documentaries, often face longer waits. This discrepancy could be due to the nature of these films, as independent and documentary films may cater to more niche audiences, requiring a different release strategy.
The competitive landscape and cultural significance of films also impact the timing of releases. Distributors must consider the market saturation of similar films or those with strong US-centric stories that may appeal more to American audiences. Additionally, piracy concerns can influence the timing of releases, as early availability of pirated content can affect the performance of a film in the Australian market, as seen in the case of "John Wick Chapter 2."
The holiday schedule differences between the US and Australia further contribute to the timing strategy. Films are often held for holiday releases in Australia, which can influence the overall time lag between the two markets. Moreover, the historical dominance of American films in the Australian market, with 94% of exhibited films originating from the US in 1923, has likely influenced the release patterns over the years.
In recent years, the growth of international productions in Australia, including those from the US, has been steady. The pandemic further accelerated this trend, with many Hollywood productions choosing Australia as their base. This increase in international productions may impact the timing strategies of Australian films, as they compete for screen time and audience attention in a crowded market.
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Production and funding
The Australian film industry has a rich history, with the world's first feature film, The Story of the Kelly Gang, produced in 1906. Over the years, the industry has experienced highs and lows, with periods of booming success and busts where few films were made. One of the earliest production companies, Cinesound Productions, was established in 1931 and operated until the early 1940s, producing only 17 feature films, all but one directed by Ken Hall. During the 1960s, Australian film production reached another low point, with only a few notable films, including the 1966 comedy They're a Weird Mob.
In the 1970s, a "New Wave" of Australian cinema emerged, often showcasing colloquial Australian culture. This period saw the rise of prominent actors and filmmakers like David Williamson, who wrote successful scripts and screenplays for Australian films such as Don's Party (1976) and Gallipoli (1981). Many Australian stars transitioned to Hollywood during this time, including Mel Gibson and director Peter Weir, who found international stardom.
The local industry is relatively small and heavily dependent on grants and funding bodies, leading to a focus on "indie" films. Screen Australia and various state funding bodies play a significant role in financing Australian films. The lack of private investment means that films often need to have some social value to secure funding, which some viewers may find heavy-handed or dull. However, this dynamic allows for more artistic freedom and exploration of diverse topics, resulting in films that feel more genuine and enjoyable to audiences.
Australian films tend to be more heavily influenced by investors, with a focus on backing the art and maintaining indie circles and state socio-standards. In contrast, American films are shaped by the agendas of large private production houses and significant corporate and Christian investors. Additionally, the larger volume of films and money in the USA can lead to a "blockbuster" priority that may not always resonate with audiences.
In recent years, Australia has attracted international productions, with many A-list stars choosing to film in the country during the COVID-19 pandemic. This has resulted in a massive growth in production, with expenditure on scripted screen production exceeding $2 billion for the first time, according to Screen Australia's Drama Report of 2021-22. Australia's talented cast and crews, world-class infrastructure, and attractive locations have drawn these productions to the country.
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Australian talent migrating to Hollywood
Australia has produced a surprising number of Hollywood stars, with many Australian actors, directors, and musicians making it big in the United States. This talent exchange has resulted in a significant Australian influence on global entertainment. While some Australian stars, like Nicole Kidman, have made the move to Hollywood to further their careers, others, like Isla Fisher, maintain strong connections to their Australian roots even after finding success in the US.
One factor contributing to the success of Australian talent in Hollywood is the thriving local entertainment industry in Australia. Television shows like Neighbours and Home and Away have provided a platform for budding performers, while the country's robust theatre scene has refined homegrown talent, preparing them for international fame. Additionally, Australia's unique approach to acting and filmmaking has helped its talent stand out. John Clark, the former director of the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), played a pivotal role in shaping a distinct Australian mode of acting that combined the theatre of London with Hollywood glamour while preserving Australia's national characteristics. NIDA graduates include renowned actors and filmmakers such as Mel Gibson, Cate Blanchett, Baz Luhrmann, and Catherine Martin.
The "can-do, will-tell, don't wait for permission" attitude instilled by institutions like NIDA has empowered Australian performers and filmmakers to take risks and pursue opportunities beyond their home country. This mindset, combined with Australia's relatively small population and remoteness, has created a sense of determination and resilience among its talent, driving them to chase their dreams on the world stage.
Another factor contributing to the success of Australian talent in Hollywood is their reputation for taking their work seriously without taking themselves too seriously. This approach adds a sense of fun and cheekiness to their performances, as exemplified by actors like Chris Hemsworth and directors like Baz Luhrmann. Additionally, the lack of private investment in Australian cinema, with most films being funded by Screen Australia or state funding bodies, has resulted in a focus on social value and indie-style productions that showcase down-to-earth characters and progressive social issues. This contrast between the Australian and American film industries has helped Australian talent bring a fresh perspective to Hollywood.
The migration of Australian talent to Hollywood has had a significant impact on both the Australian and American entertainment industries. While Australia continues to produce and export exceptional talent, the influence of Australian storytelling, character development, and social awareness is felt in Hollywood productions, shaping the landscape of global entertainment.
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Australian films' social value
Australian films have a unique social value that sets them apart from American films. Firstly, Australian films often showcase colloquial Australian culture and explore contemporary Australian identity, making them more relatable and authentic to Australian audiences. This focus on local stories and talent has led to the success of films such as "They're a Weird Mob", which documented the changing face of Australian society in the 1960s, and the classic "On Our Selection" series, based on the writings of author Steele Rudd.
Secondly, Australian films tend to have better writing and touch upon topics not usually seen in American cinema. They address social issues in a progressive and humorous manner, often with a critical view of capitalism and those in power. This is likely due to the influence of investors and the film funding landscape in Australia, which is quite different from the US. Australian films are largely funded by Screen Australia or state funding bodies, which means they must have some sort of social value to receive support. In contrast, American films are heavily influenced by large private production houses and investors with specific agendas, which can result in films that feel more "sold out" to blockbuster priorities.
Thirdly, Australian films have been praised for their better representation of disabled and neurodivergent people. They also tend to feature more down-to-earth characters and actors, which makes them more enjoyable and genuine for viewers seeking a break from typical Hollywood action-adventure fare. This is reflected in the success of Australian films like "Animal Kingdom", "Tomorrow, When the War Began", and "Balibo", which have resonated with audiences both domestically and internationally.
Lastly, Australian Gothic films, a genre that has been popular since the 1970s, showcase diverse camera techniques and stylistic choices that challenge audience perceptions. These films often explore Australian cultural values, particularly in relation to female characters during the genre's early years. Overall, the social value of Australian films lies in their ability to offer fresh perspectives, diverse representation, and a more genuine and progressive approach to storytelling, which has been recognised and celebrated by audiences and critics alike.
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Frequently asked questions
The cinema of Australia began with the 1906 production of The Story of the Kelly Gang, arguably the world's first feature film. Since then, Australian films have made it to the USA and gained international recognition. However, by 1923, American films dominated the Australian film market, with 94% of all exhibited films originating from the US.
Australian films make it to the USA through a combination of factors, including the talent of Australian cast and crew, world-class infrastructure, and the ability to attract production work from overseas. Additionally, Australian films may be distributed in the USA through film festivals and awards recognition.
Australian moviegoers have different preferences than US audiences. Comedies, documentaries, dramas, and music/event films tend to perform better in Australia, while Hollywood action/adventure movies are more popular in the US. Australian audiences may be less receptive to overt flag-waving and US-centric stories.
Australian films face the challenge of limited private investment and the migration of talent to Hollywood. However, they are known for their unique perspectives, progressive social issues, and genuine storytelling. Australian films that make it to the USA may benefit from their "indie" nature and exploration of contemporary Australian identity.
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