Film Review: Down Under

Cinematography by Lachlan Milne ACS.

Reviewed by James Cunningham at the 2016 Sydney Film Festival.


A provocative black comedy set during the aftermath of the Cronulla riots, Down Under, shot by Lachlan Milne ACS (Not Suitable For Children), focuses on two groups of hotheads from both sides of the fight who are destined to collide.

Filmed around Kurnell, Maroubra, Matraville and Lakemba; last year marked the ten year anniversary of the infamous riots. A wonderful Australian cast features David Field (Chopper), Damon Herriman (The Water Diviner), Lincoln Younes (Home & Away) and Justin Rosniak (Packed To The Rafters).

A satirical comedy Down Under is about how ridiculous each side of conflict can be, and what happens when they clash. “By tackling the subject matter contained in this film, my aim is to provoke a reaction not usually found in comedy,” said the film’s Director Abe Forsythe (Ned). Provoke a reaction he certainly will, for Down Under dares to explore the funny side of a very ugly situation, using and skewering the expected cultural stereotypes. 

In filming Down Under, Milne has beautifully managed to help create a daring film that will cause offence, laughter and reflection.


James Cunningham is the Editor of Australian Cinematographer Magazine.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Discover more from Australian Cinematographer Magazine

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading