More than a limited series, this feels like fan fiction—a tribute to one of Baz Luhrmann’s most beloved films, and he’s helming it himself. In 2008, Australia entered the market. Although in terms of ratings and statistics, it could have performed better, people adored it and gave it the tag of a late bloomer.
Now, Baz Luhrmann was a man on a mission: to reimagine and practically redo the entire thing while making some changes.
On paper, the basic plot remains the same. The story revolves around Lady Sarah Ashle, who inherits a large cattle ranch in Australia. When she realizes her land is in danger, she teams up with Drover to guide her cattle on the road to save her property.
They also encounter an Australian boy named Nullah, and as the story progresses, the trio lives through four years that will ultimately define them. The story also doesn’t just have vagabond-ish vibes; it deals with the backdrop and the effects of the Second World War in various parts of the world.
In terms of direction, the shots and every possible aspect transport us back to the memories of the 2008 film. The trailer also features some landscape shots, giving us a glimpse of what to expect.
Now you might ask, why bother watching it if it’s the ‘same old same old’? Firstly, the ending has been changed, so it will indeed inject new emotions.
Also, if you are one of those who take note of the BGM and soundtrack, then for your information, the soundtrack has been redone as well, providing a new experience. Also, a fresh retelling of an old classic by the same creator won’t disappoint.
Baz Luhrmann, alongside writers Stuart Beattie, Ronald Harwood, and Richard Flanagan, directed, produced (with Catherine Knapman and G. Mac Brown), and co-wrote Faraway Downs.
The production and costume design were expertly handled by multiple-Academy Award winner Catherine Martin. Additionally, executive producers include Luhrmann, Martin, Knapman, and Schuyler Weiss. The studio responsible for this project is 20th Television.
Faraway Downs will be streaming on Hulu on November 26th. If you haven’t checked out the trailer, click below-