High Ground

Synopsis

In the movie High Ground, released in 2020 and directed by Stephen Johnson, an Indigenous man named Gutjuk witnesses the brutal massacre of his people by white officers in Northern Australia in the early 20th century. After growing up under the guidance of Travis, a sharpshooter and World War I sniper, Gutjuk finds himself torn between two worlds. When a mission to capture the remaining members of his tribe begins, Gutjuk must decide where his loyalties lie and confront the brutal realities of colonialism. Filled with breathtaking landscapes and intense action sequences, High Ground delves into themes of justice, reconciliation, and the impact of historical trauma on contemporary issues.

Cast

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  Simon Baker

  Travis

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  Jacob Junior Nayinggul

  Gutjuk

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  Jack Thompson

  Moran

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  Callan Mulvey

  Ambrose

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  Caren Pistorius

  Claire

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  Witiyana Marika

  Grandfather Dharrpa

Reviews

High Ground has been generally well-received by critics, with a strong focus on the performances and the powerful storytelling. The film has been praised for its stunning visuals showcasing the Australian landscape. Rotten Tomatoes gave High Ground an impressive rating of 90% based on 33 reviews, highlighting the authenticity of the story and the compelling characters. IMDb users rated the movie 6.5/10, showing a slightly more mixed response from audiences. The performances of the cast, especially Simon Baker as Travis, have been lauded for their depth and emotional resonance. Critics have commended the film for shedding light on a lesser-known historical event and exploring themes of cultural identity and resilience. Overall, High Ground is a gripping and thought-provoking drama that captivates audiences with its powerful storytelling and poignant message.