Let the reviews speak for themselves.
1/24
How does one measure a great film? Yardsticks for cinematic genius come in different shapes and sizes. Financial lucrativeness, being one, since we all know that box office money talks. Then there’s the amount of awards its won, the legacy of the director, the artistry of the cinematography, the excellence of the cast—a whole variety of things that must be taken into account, really. So when it comes to nailing down the best of the best, it’s helpful to have a streamlined way of picking them out. Which is why, we turn to the ever trustworthy ratings and reviews.
The likes of IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes and more recently, Letterboxd, have become an accessible way for critics—and by critics, we mean audiences just like us—to review films, and a great way to determine what flicks might be worth a watch or not based on people’s real life experiences of watching them. Based on often hundreds and thousands of testimonies, boiled down to averaged numbers, we can separate the classics from the skippable. And not just for major Hollywood projects either.
When it comes to our greatest Australian films, its more than just our homegrown audience who have opinions about them, and gathering the data from all the major worldwide reviewing platforms, we’ve been able to file down the list to the top 20 highest rated Australian films of all time. To ’90s action classics to modern thrillers and compelling historical narratives, here are all the best, most beloved Aussie movies of all time, ranked by reviews.
2/24
Image credit: Paramount Pictures
23. Crocodile Dundee (1986)
IMDb: 6.6/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 89% | Letterboxd: 3.5/5 | Average rating: 7.2/10
One of Australia’s most iconic films of all time, and the nation’s highest grossing film on record, Crocodile Dundee is as beloved now as it was when it first came out. The 1986 classic blends so many quintessential Australian elements—the Outback, Australian wildlife, action and intrigue and, of course, the legendary Paul Hogan—and has been widely loved not just in Australia, but across the whole world for decades.
Stream now on Stan
3/24
Image credit: Warner Bros.
22. Elvis (2022)
IMDb: 7.3/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 77% | Letterboxd: 3.4/5 | Average rating: 7.2/10
Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley biopic starring Austin Butler is another one of not just Australia’s most financially successful Hollywood films, but one of the most highly rated too. Though considered an international production, with a legendary Australian director at the helm and having been shot and produced entirely in Queensland, we proudly consider this flick one of our own. There was always going to be plenty of buzz about a major Hollywood feature about the life of Elvis Presley, and Elvis certainly lived up to it—at least according to the ratings.
Stream now on Netflix
4/24
Image credit: Mushroom Pictures
21. Chopper (2000)
IMDb: 7.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 76% | Letterboxd: 3.6/5 | Average rating: 7.3/10
The Australian dark comedy crime drama Chopper, starring Eric Bana, has become a national cult-classic since its release in 2000, and is still one of the highest rated Australian films across all the major reviewing platforms. A biographical feature based on the notorious Australian criminal turned author Mark “Chopper” Read, the film follows Read’s life and time in prison—chaotic, intense yet uniquely funny, this independent flick may not be widely known, but those that have seen it have high praises to sing.
Rent or buy now on Amazon Prime
5/24
Image credit: 20th Century Studios
20. Moulin Rouge! (2001)
IMDb: 7.6/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 75% | Letterboxd: 3.8/5 | Average rating: 7.5/10
Another Baz Luhrmann cult-favourite, Moulin Rouge! starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor is widely considered one of Luhrmann’s best. This fun, wild jukebox musical drama, set in Paris during the Bohemian revolution of the 1900s, but filmed entirely in Sydney, has captured the hearts of people around the world for years. One of Kidman’s earlier works on her steep rise to fame, this film remains to this day one of those rare, artistic pieces of cinema that will no doubt endure for a long time.
Stream now on Disney+
6/24
Image credit: Roadshow Films
19. The Dry (2020)
IMDb: 6.8/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | Letterboxd: 3.4/5 | Average rating: 7.6/10
Eric Bana is clearly no stranger to this list of beloved Australian cinema. Beyond Chopper, Bana’s the lead in a show called The Dry that was extremely well-received by critics, and smashed it at the box office, too. A mystery drama thriller directed by Australian Robert Connolly and based off the book of the same name by Australian author Jane Harper, this wild murder investigation set in rural Australia takes all the right twists and turns that the audience loves.
Stream now on Netflix
7/24
Image credit: Netflix
18. The Stranger (2022)
IMDb: 6.6/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | Letterboxd: 3.5/5 | Average rating: 7.6/10
A riveting Australian movie directed by Chris Hale and starring Joel Edgerton, The Stranger holds a crown as one of the country’s highest-rated cinematic gems. With its mesmerising tale of a mysterious traveler encountering secrets in the Outback, this dark thriller weaves a spellbinding narrative and features breathtaking visuals, and if the ratings have anything to say about it, stakes its claim as a must-watch in the pantheon of Australian film.
Stream now on Netflix
8/24
Image credit: Miramax
17. Muriel’s Wedding (1994)
IMDb: 7.2/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 82% | Letterboxd: 3.8/5 | Average rating: 7.6/10
One of those films that’s just become culturally synonymous with the country, Muriel’s Wedding directed by P.J. Hogan and starring Toni Collette has won the hearts of Australians for years, thanks to its quirky charm and quintessentially Aussie themes. Following Collette’s character from her misfitted life in small-town Australia to a new adventure in Sydney, its filled with recognisable locations, classic Australian dialogue and plenty of heart—it’s no wonder this film remains a perennial favourite across the country, and worldwide.
Stream now on Stan
9/24
Image credit: Entertainment One
16. The Sapphires (2012)
IMDb: 7.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 91% | Letterboxd: 3.4/5 | Average rating: 7.6/10
Based on an incredible true story, The Sapphires follows four Indigenous Australian women who form a singing group and travel to Vietnam in the tumultuous 1960s to perform for troops, dealing with love, loss and family discord along the way. Starring Chris O’Dowd and Australian legends Jessica Mauboy, Deborah Mailman, Miranda Tapsell and Shari Sebbens, this heart-lifting, funny and inspiring film has done extremely well for itself when it comes to all the raving reviews it gets.
Rent or buy on Apple TV
10/24
Image credit: Miramax
15. Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002)
IMDb: 7.4/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 87% | Letterboxd: 3.5/5 | Average rating: 7.7/10
One of Australia’s most important and poignant historical films, and one of the most highly rated to boot, Rabbit-Proof Fence tells a sad yet captivating story about three young Indigenous girls who were part of the Stolen Generation, who escape from a mission and attempt to find their way back home across the Outback. Haunting and heartbreaking, it’s widely considered to be one of the most educational and meaningful pieces of Australian cinema when it comes to our country’s dark history, and has earned acclaim both here and internationally for its exceptional portrayal of the past.
Stream now on SBS On Demand
11/24
Image credit: Umbrella Entertainment
14. The Babadook (2014)
IMDb: 6.8/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 98% | Letterboxd: 3.3/5 | Average rating: 7.7/10
Whoever said that a truly exceptional thriller was reserved to Hollywood production only? The Australian horror mystery The Badadook is set in Adelaide and follows a single mother and her son on a bone-chilling journey of paranoia and fear about an unseen monster lurking in their house. For a country’s whose primary focus lies in dramas, action and the occasional rom-com, its nice to see a good old fashioned scary movie make Australia’s top rated list.
Rent or buy on Amazon Prime
12/24
Image credit: A24
13. Bring Her Back (2025)
IMDb: 7.2/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 89% | Letterboxd: 3.7/5 | Average rating: 7.8/10
Adelaide directors Danny and Michael Philippou burst onto the horror scene with their genre-bending Talk to Me in 2022 (more on that later) and their second effort Bring Her Back bristles with the same unnerving and haunting energy. The plot follows two step-siblings who are suddenly orphaned, and then become absorbed in an occult ritual by their new foster mother. The tight cast filled with several newcomers deliver a performance out of their skin, but perhaps that’s a poor choice in words…
Rent now on Prime
13/24
Image credit: Universal Pictures
12. Babe (1995)
IMDb: 6.9/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 98% | Letterboxd: 3.4/5 | Average rating: 7.8/10
Sure, it might be a family film angled at a younger audience, but you can’t deny the legacy that Babe has left on the Australian film industry. Starring some big Australian names, like Magda Szubanski and Hugo Weaving, and filmed entirely in New South Wales, this comedy-drama was a groundbreaking feat in the talking animal film genre, thrusting Australia into the international light when it came out. Since then, it’s remained a steadfast family classic, highly rated and widely beloved.
Stream now on Binge
14/24
Image credit: A24
11. Talk to Me (2022)
IMDb: 7.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | Letterboxd: 3.5/5 | Average rating: 7.8/10
The directorial debut from the aforementioned Philippou brothers was a smash hit in every sense of the word. Talk To Me follows a group of teenagers that discover they can contact spirits using an ominous severed and embalmed hand. The project picked up buzz all over the world, after showing at the Adelaide Film Festival it went on to show at Cannes, Sundance, Berlin, SXSW, and more before its release. There are jumps that will jolt you, a gripping storyline that—much like the hand—will not let go, and acclaimed performances from Sophie Wilde, Zoe Terakes, and more. Undoubtedly one of Australia’s best horrors, delivering a gut punch to the genre not felt since Wolf Creek.
Stream now on Stan
15/24
Image credit: Miramax
10. Strictly Ballroom (1992)
IMDb: 7.2/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 88% | Letterboxd: 3.8/5 | Average rating: 7.9/10
Another film, another feather in Baz Luhrmann’s cap. Strictly Ballroom follows the classic tale of two young dancers trying to find their way in the world by breaking the traditional mould. Set in the glamorous world of competitive ballroom dancing in Australia, with its dazzling choreography and infectious energy, this iconic romcom waltzes its way into the hearts of audiences everywhere, leaving a lasting impression as a beloved example of Australian cinema.
Stream now on ABC Iview
16/24
Image credit: Miramax
9. The Castle (1997)
IMDb: 7.6/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 87% | Letterboxd: 3.8/5 | Average rating: 7.9/10
A piece of cinematic Australian genius, the oh-so-simple yet stunningly effective premise and execution of The Castle makes it one of the main feathers in Australia’s film industry hat. By definition a cult-classic and a bit of an IYKYK kind of flick, The Castle follows a goofy yet loveable working-class Melbournian family and their patriarch as they fight to keep their beloved home from being claimed by the expanding airport next door. With a unique grasp on Aussie humour and a classic underdog tale that everyone can relate to, The Castle is an unserious yet important piece of Australian cinema that is adored around the world.
Stream now on Stan
17/24
Image credit: Universal Pictures
8. Babyteeth (2019)
IMDb: 7.2/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | Letterboxd: 3.8/5 | Average rating: 8/10
A newer, raw Australian drama that has received great critical acclaim for its poignant and creative approach, Babyteeth follows an Australian teen, played by Eliza Scanlen, during her cancer diagnosis as she explores life, love—when she falls for a known local drug dealer—and the complexities of family. Shot in Sydney and distinctly Australian in its feel and execution, Babyteeth is revered for its more contemporary, authentic approach to a classic coming of age story.
Stream now on Netflix
18/24
Image credit: Roadshow Film
7. Gallipoli (1981)
IMDb: 7.4/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 91% | Letterboxd: 3.8/5 | Average rating: 8/10
A faithful portrait of the ideals and spirit of the country during the First World War, Peter Weir’s Gallipoli tells one of the formative stories of modern Australia. Devastating, emotionally-charged, and quintessentially Australian, it’s long been a favourite of local critics, even if the historical accuracy leaves something to be desired. The final battle scene embodies the shattered dreams of soldiers who were lost fighting in the war.
Stream now on Binge
19/24
Image credit: Roadshow Entertainment
6. The Piano (1993)
IMDb: 7.5/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | Letterboxd: 3.9/5 | Average rating: 8.1/10
The same year that Jurassic Park came out, Sam Neill was also in a three-time Academy Award winning, universally praised romance thriller called The Piano. Set in our neighbouring nation New Zealand, featuring Australian names such as Neill, and co-produced here, The Piano continues to be one of the highest rated Australian productions of all time despite its age—perhaps due to its excellent cinematography, compelling narrative around love, jealousy and identity, and stellar performances.
Stream now on Netflix
20/24
Image credit: Transmission Films
5. Lion (2016)
IMDb: 8/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 84% | Letterboxd: 3.9/5 | Average rating: 8.1/10
Based on a true story, the BAFTA Award wining film Lion follows a young Indian boy, Saroo, played by Dev Patel, who becomes separated from his family in India and is adopted by an Australian couple, played by Nicole Kidman and David Wenham. As he grows older, he embarks on a journey to reconnect with his roots, using Google Earth to trace his way back home. With its heartfelt performances and breathtaking cinematography, Lion grips audiences with its emotional depth and universal themes of identity, belonging, and the power of determination.
Rent or buy on Amazon Prime
21/24
Image credit: Vertigo Productions
4. Charlie’s Country (2013)
IMDb: 7.3/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | Letterboxd: 3.7/5 | Average rating: 8.1/10
Extremely well-received and acclaimed for its incredibly poignant and powerful Australian narrative, Charlie’s Country follows titular lead Charlie, played by David Gulpilil, an Indigenous man grappling with the challenges of cultural displacement and discrimination in Arnhem Land. Through its raw and authentic storytelling, this cinematic masterpiece sheds light on the harsh realities faced by Indigenous communities in Australia, highlighting issues of social injustice and marginalisation with its compelling performances and evocative cinematography—undeniably one of Australia’s best works.
Rent or buy on Apple TV
22/24
Image credit: Lionsgate Films
3. Hacksaw Ridge (2016)
IMDb: 8.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 84% | Letterboxd: 4/5 | Average rating: 8.1/10
Filmed in Australian and featuring a number of big Australian names, the World War II drama Hacksaw Ridge starring Andrew Garfield earns its status as one of the highest-rated Australian films for its gripping storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful performances. Its portrayal of real life army medic Desmond Doss’s remarkable heroism resonates globally, showcasing Australian filmmaking talent on an international scale. The film’s critical acclaim and numerous awards nominations certainly underscore its impact, solidifying its place as a standout achievement in Australian and international cinema.
Stream now on Netflix
23/24
Image credit: Roadshow Entertainment
2. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
IMDb: 7.5/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | Letterboxd: 3.9/5 | Average rating: 8.2/10
Fun, poignant and iconic. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is celebrated as one of the highest-rated Australian films for its bold celebration of diversity, something that was well ahead of its time. Directed by Stephan Elliott, the film follows three drag performers, played by Hugo Weaving, Guy Pierce and Terence Stamp, on a journey across the Outback in a colourful bus named Priscilla. Captivating audiences with its flamboyant charm and heartfelt storytelling, this Australian classic has been resonating deeply with viewers worldwide since its release in 1994.
Rent or buy on Apple TV
24/24
Image credit: Warner Bros.
1. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
IMDb: 8.1/10 | Rotten Tomatoes: 97% | Letterboxd: 4.2/5 | Average rating: 8.7/10
A movie that the nation is exceptionally proud to call its own, though Mad Max: Fury Road didn’t clean up at the box office as much as you would think given its incredible critical acclaim internationally, it’s still the highest rated Australian film out there. Holding not one but six Academy Award wins from 2016, this George Miller cult classic starring Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron and Nicholas Hoult transports audiences to a dystopian future where the relentless pursuit of survival drives the narrative. With its adrenaline-fuelled car chases, dynamic characters, and visceral storytelling, Fury Road captivates viewers from start to finish and solidifies its status as a modern action classic. As a testament to Australian filmmaking prowess, Fury Road continues to be celebrated for its bold vision and cinematic excellence.Stream now on Netflix
