From Chopper to Samson & Delilah: The ultimate guide to our cinematic heritage – and where to stream it

Australians have always had a penchant for the underdog, the larrikin, and the haunting beauty of the outback. The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald celebrate that unique spirit with the release of The Top 50 Australian Movies, a definitive countdown of the films that have shaped our national identity.

Whether it’s the savage comedy of Chopper, the gritty devastation of Gallipoli, or the heart-wrenching journey of Rabbit-Proof Fence, this project honours the films that have stayed with us for decades. 

Led by The Age Spectrum Editor Lindy Percival and the Visual Stories Team, the judging panel includes acclaimed directors Warwick Thornton, Gillian Armstrong, actor and director John Polson, as well as legendary critic Margaret Pomeranz. 

The feature offers a highly immersive journey through our cinematic history. Beyond exploring the chosen films, subscribers can engage directly with the content through a custom-built voting feature to crown their own favourite Australian film and see where to stream winners like Samson & Delilah. Some of the most popular movies are available on Stan in a specially curated rail on the platform.

“In an increasingly globalised culture, it has never been more important to cherish those films that tell our own stories”, says The Age Spectrum editor Lindy Percival. “This tribute to Australian cinema reminds us of the vital role our filmmakers play in entertaining, inspiring and enlightening us about the place we call home.”

“Putting together this list really highlighted the range of styles and genres the Australian film industry has produced over its lifetime,” says Nathanael Scott, a member of the Visual Stories Team. “The challenge was creating a story that felt like this huge group all belonged together. Picking the right clip, finding common categories and showing the faces of the jury and their recommendations meant you can have cultural monoliths that loomed large internationally as well as some smaller, quintessentially Australian stories that don’t feel out of place.”

“This interactive project proudly explores 120 years of Australian cinema as told through the lens of our most innovative creators,” says Julia Naughton, Head of Life – Culture, Lifestyle & Travel. “It is essential reading – and viewing – for anyone who values the sheer creativity of our local storytellers.”

The digital feature is available online now, with a dedicated print souvenir appearing in the Spectrum section of the metro mastheads this Saturday. Films available to stream on Stan will also be showcased on a bespoke rail on the platform.

Friday 1 May, 2026