Affectionally known as “Aussiewood” in production circles, the movie industry in Australia is thriving, leading the way in providing tools and technologies for the cinematic business. This ranges from extensive studios and unique settings to high-profile acting and directorial talents.
Australia can certainly give Hollywood a run for its money these days, and there are plenty of great examples, showcasing why the cinematic realm Down Under is at the top of its game right now. This is also the reason why Russell Crowe is keen to return home, whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Russell Crowe took his talent back home
Over the last couple of decades, few Aussie actors have become more famous than Russel Crowe, who arguably hit the peak of his stardom when Gladiator hit our screens back in 2000. This lavish sword-and-sandals epic was a huge success globally, making Crowe one of the most in-demand actors in the Hollywood movie scene.
But eventually, given that Crowe has a rather direct and forthright personality, he grew tired of the lifestyle in Tinseltown, drawing him further away from the California hub and back to his Australian roots. This was never clearer than one of his most recent projects, combining the roles of director and screenplay writer, alongside that of actor, when planning the release of Poker Face in 2022.
Australia provided much better options
Complex and intriguing, Poker Face is a thriller that keeps audiences guessing. Originally, the story and setting was meant to be located in the tech world of California, looking towards the Silicon Valley vibes. However, when he read through the original script, plus the casting choices and shooting locations, Crowe was far from happy.
Indeed, there was blunt refusal to take the project by Crowe, unless he had complete control. Once that was agreed, production headed straight to Australia, where he promptly cast mostly Aussie actors in the leading roles. Crowe wanted nothing left to chance, and his decisions resulted in an exciting movie rooted in gambling, and one that audiences in his own homeland grasped far more favourably than those back in the United States.
Understanding the mixed reviews
One thing became clear when Poker Face was revealed. American audiences were mostly negative, while Aussies loved what they saw. Considering this production has gambling at its heart, we can probably say the same about getting trusted reviews of casino websites for players Down Under, which focus uniquely on Aussie players rather than people located elsewhere.
These are important considerations for any worthwhile reviews, whether they’re for movies or casino games, given there can be large cultural and preferential differences between regions. Thankfully, the Poker Face movie captured the tension and thrills of that particular card game, and with plenty of Australian flavour, akin to their love for pokies and other games of chance.
Crowe supports Aussie film hub
Stage set for the huge @russellcrowe announcement of more movie studios and accommodation at Pacific Bay resort in Coffs Harbour. @7NewsSydney pic.twitter.com/Ag6hyTBu2Z
— Alex Hart (@alexhart7) June 16, 2021
According to ABC reports back in 2021, Crowe has already made a significant investment in the Australian movie industry, sharing his vision for a film studio precinct located near to his Coffs Harbour home. This project is expected to break ground in early 2024, featuring plans to incorporate a movie museum and other upgrades to the Pacific Bay resort.
Formally called Pacific Bay Resort Studios, the local government in New South Wales has joined investors, alongside Crowe himself, eager to see the location become a major hub for Australian cinema productions. This will include five massive sound stages, high-tech facilities for animation and special effects, plus a new branch of the national film school for aspiring Aussie actors.
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