Walkabout (1971)

In the bustling heart of Sydney, Australia, a genteel British family finds their comfortable existence suddenly shattered. An unexpected chain of events leads the adolescent daughter and younger son, clothed only in their stifling school uniforms, stranded in the unforgiving expanse of the Australian Outback. With them, they carry little more than scant rations, a battery-powered radio, a bag of children's toys, and the cloth remnant of their last normal family picnic. As they wander through the desolate landscape, teetering on the brink of despair, their path converges with that of a young Aboriginal boy. Engaged in a sacred walkabout, a ritualistic journey marking the transition to adulthood, the boy braves the wilderness alone, surviving solely off the land. Their meeting, though marred by the inability to communicate verbally, sparks an unusual companionship. The boy, alien to their urbanised existence, aids their survival but fails to grasp their desperate longing for civilisation. Against the stark backdrop of the Outback, the trio embarks on an arduous journey home. The Aboriginal boy, using his traditional knowledge, becomes their guide, teaching them to find water in the barren desert. Their unlikely alliance begins to flourish, transcending the confines of language and culture. However, as they navigate the wilderness, their burgeoning bond takes a tragic turn. As the plot unfolds, Walkabout (1971) serves as a poignant exploration of survival, culture clash, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the haunting beauty of the Australian wilderness. This gripping tale of resilience and transformation underlines the profound impact of unforeseen circumstances on the lives of its young protagonists.

Walkabout is an adventure movie featuring Jenny Agutter.

Walkabout is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy Walkabout on Amazon Video, Apple TV and Vudu.