Tudawali (1988)

"Tudawali" (1988) presents a riveting exploration of the life of Robert Tudawali, the groundbreaking Aboriginal movie star who first dazzled audiences in the cinematic cornerstone, "Jedda". The narrative weaves a compelling tapestry of Tudawali's journey, tracing his steps from his humble beginnings outside Darwin to his meteoric rise in Sydney's bustling film and TV industry. The film not only tells Tudawali's personal story but also masterfully juxtaposes the stark contrasts of his multifaceted life. It mirrors the idyllic simplicity of his home with the frenzied glamour of Sydney's film studios. This poignant narrative is punctuated by the vibrant performances of the cast, including renowned actor Charles 'Bud' Tingwell. With Ernie Dingo's finest performance at its heart, the film is a testament to Tudawali's remarkable life, cut tragically short by severe burns at the age of 40. It serves as a stirring document of Australia's film heritage, simultaneously shedding light on the country's Indigenous culture. "Tudawali" stands as a significant narrative, especially considering the unchanged attitudes towards Aboriginal people in regions like the Northern Territory and Queensland, even after half a century since the release of "Jedda". This film is not just a tribute to an iconic star, but a reflection on a culture and a call for change.

Tudawali is a biography movie featuring Ernie Dingo and directed by Steve Jodrell.

Tudawali is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and Tubi TV.

It is also possible to buy Tudawali on Amazon Video.