Watch The Extraordinary Tale of William Buckley

The Extraordinary Tale of William Buckley is a 2010 Australian adventure drama film that follows the incredible journey of William Buckley, a young Englishman who was deported to Australia in 1803 for allegedly stealing a bolt of cloth. The movie is based on a true story and portrays the epic struggle of Buckley as he tries to survive in the harsh Australian wilderness.

The film begins with the arrival of William Buckley (played by Michael Cathcart) in Port Phillip, a penal colony in present-day Victoria, Australia. Buckley is initially overwhelmed by the new environment and the harsh treatment that he receives from the authorities. However, he soon realizes that his only hope for survival in this new land is to adapt to the culture and customs of the aboriginal people who inhabit the area.

Buckley is eventually taken in by the Wathawurrung people, who believe that he is a reincarnated relative that has returned from the dead. Buckley's new life with the aboriginals is vastly different from his previous life in England, and he soon learns to embrace their way of life. He becomes a skilled hunter and gatherer, and is highly respected among the community.

However, Buckley is torn between his newfound family and the desire to return to his former life. He yearns to leave the wilderness and return to civilization, but at the same time, he has developed a deep bond with the aboriginal people and their culture. His struggle between these two worlds becomes the central theme of the film.

Throughout his journey, Buckley faces numerous obstacles and challenges. He is constantly hunted by the authorities, who seek to capture him and bring him back to the penal colony. In addition, he faces natural dangers such as hunger, exposure, and wild animals. Despite these challenges, Buckley perseveres and gains a deep appreciation for the Australian wilderness.

The film is shot in a highly atmospheric and cinematic style, with stunning cinematography that captures the beauty and harshness of the Australian landscape. The music also plays a significant role in the movie, with a haunting score that adds to the sense of adventure and danger.

The performances by the cast are excellent, with Michael Cathcart giving a nuanced and subtle portrayal of Buckley's character. Jean-Marc Russ shines as the leader of the Wathawurrung people, bringing a sense of gravitas and nobility to the role. Chris Haywood also delivers a strong performance as a sympathetic settler who tries to help Buckley in his journey.

Overall, The Extraordinary Tale of William Buckley is a captivating and thought-provoking film that explores themes of identity, culture, and survival. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of adaptation in the face of adversity. The movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in Australian history, adventure, or simply a great story.

The Extraordinary Tale of William Buckley is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 53 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.