Disregard the goofs, inconsistencies and any other flaws that are mentioned in the reviews. This movie is beautifully photographed; in many cases, I don't know how. Great horse riding....again, I don't know how and the music raises goose bumps. This movie is any frustrated "cowboy's" dream. It is unbelievable that anyone can stay on a horse in a controlled ride during the scenes. I would love to read more technical details about the filming of this movie......especially how Kirk Douglas was able to fold his leg at the knee and put it all in one pant leg. The camera set ups and shots had to be pure genius to think they actually worked. It is very easy as I said before to overlook, even if you recognize them, any flaws.
79 Reviews
A Celebration of Australia's History
JamesHitchcock31 January 2013
We often think of the Western as being a characteristically American film genre, although there have been occasional attempts to adapt its conventions to stories set in other parts of the world. "North-West Frontier", for example, is a British film set in British-ruled India, but the plot is essentially that of "Stagecoach". "Untamed" transfers the standard waggon-train plot from the American prairies to the South African veldt, and "The Sundowners", about Australian pioneer life, has similarities to many films set in the Old West. These two latter films, despite their ostensible setting, had an American leading man, Tyrone Power in "Untamed" and Robert Mitchum in "The Sundowners".
"The Man from Snowy River" is another Australian film with a plot which could be that of a Western. (One could call it a "Southern"). It also features a major American star, in this case Kirk Douglas, in a leading role. Or perhaps I should say that it features Kirk Douglas in two leading roles, the brothers Harrison, a wealthy cattle farmer, and Spur, a prospector. The action takes place in Victoria during the 1880s. Apart from the two brothers, the main character is Jim Craig, the "Man from Snowy River" himself. Jim is a young man orphaned by the death of his father in an accident, who goes to work on Harrison's station. The three main strands of the plot concern the relationship between the two brothers, who have been estranged for many years, the growing romance between Jim and Harrison's daughter Jessica, and the efforts to recapture a valuable stallion belonging to Harrison, which has escaped and is running with a herd of wild horses.
There are a number of differences in terminology; the wild horses are referred to as "brumbies" rather than "mustangs", Harrison's landholding is described as a "station" rather than a "ranch" and the reward for the recapture of the stallion is expressed in pounds rather than dollars. With those and a few other exceptions, however, the above synopsis could easily be that of a typical Western. And yet in some ways this is a very Australian film. The title and the story of the hunt for the escaped stallion derive from a narrative poem by the "bush poet" Banjo Paterson, although the other two strands of the plot are the inventions of the scriptwriters. Paterson himself appears as a character, as does Clancy of the Overflow, the hero of another of his poems. Paterson is something of a national icon in Australia, largely because his poetry helped to create the legend of the "Australian bushman", the tough, individualistic inhabitant of the Outback who plays a role in the Australian national imagination similar to that played by the cowboy in the American one. Clancy himself- a real individual, not a fictitious character- has come to be seen as the archetypal bushman.
"The Man from Snowy River" was made in 1982 during a decade when very few traditional Westerns were being made in America itself. (Perhaps the attraction of the film for Douglas was that it gave him a chance to star in one last "Western"). This was, however, a period when the Australian "New Wave" was starting to give that country its own cinematic identity with films about Australian history like "Picnic at Hanging Rock" and "Breaker Morant". This film, therefore, can be seen, not as an attempt to imitate Hollywood, but rather as an attempt to celebrate Australia's own history and culture in the way that the Western celebrated American history and culture. That other great celebration of the bushman, "Crocodile Dundee", a comedy with a contemporary setting, was to come shortly afterwards.
There are no really great acting performances, although Douglas copes well with the challenge of playing two very different characters, the autocratic, patrician Harrison and the more free-spirited Spur, even if his accent does not always hold up. The film is shot against some attractive mountain scenery, and the action sequences, especially the hunt for the missing stallion, are well done. This is a film which will appeal to anyone with an interest in Australia's past, as well to all horse-lovers. 7/10
"The Man from Snowy River" is another Australian film with a plot which could be that of a Western. (One could call it a "Southern"). It also features a major American star, in this case Kirk Douglas, in a leading role. Or perhaps I should say that it features Kirk Douglas in two leading roles, the brothers Harrison, a wealthy cattle farmer, and Spur, a prospector. The action takes place in Victoria during the 1880s. Apart from the two brothers, the main character is Jim Craig, the "Man from Snowy River" himself. Jim is a young man orphaned by the death of his father in an accident, who goes to work on Harrison's station. The three main strands of the plot concern the relationship between the two brothers, who have been estranged for many years, the growing romance between Jim and Harrison's daughter Jessica, and the efforts to recapture a valuable stallion belonging to Harrison, which has escaped and is running with a herd of wild horses.
There are a number of differences in terminology; the wild horses are referred to as "brumbies" rather than "mustangs", Harrison's landholding is described as a "station" rather than a "ranch" and the reward for the recapture of the stallion is expressed in pounds rather than dollars. With those and a few other exceptions, however, the above synopsis could easily be that of a typical Western. And yet in some ways this is a very Australian film. The title and the story of the hunt for the escaped stallion derive from a narrative poem by the "bush poet" Banjo Paterson, although the other two strands of the plot are the inventions of the scriptwriters. Paterson himself appears as a character, as does Clancy of the Overflow, the hero of another of his poems. Paterson is something of a national icon in Australia, largely because his poetry helped to create the legend of the "Australian bushman", the tough, individualistic inhabitant of the Outback who plays a role in the Australian national imagination similar to that played by the cowboy in the American one. Clancy himself- a real individual, not a fictitious character- has come to be seen as the archetypal bushman.
"The Man from Snowy River" was made in 1982 during a decade when very few traditional Westerns were being made in America itself. (Perhaps the attraction of the film for Douglas was that it gave him a chance to star in one last "Western"). This was, however, a period when the Australian "New Wave" was starting to give that country its own cinematic identity with films about Australian history like "Picnic at Hanging Rock" and "Breaker Morant". This film, therefore, can be seen, not as an attempt to imitate Hollywood, but rather as an attempt to celebrate Australia's own history and culture in the way that the Western celebrated American history and culture. That other great celebration of the bushman, "Crocodile Dundee", a comedy with a contemporary setting, was to come shortly afterwards.
There are no really great acting performances, although Douglas copes well with the challenge of playing two very different characters, the autocratic, patrician Harrison and the more free-spirited Spur, even if his accent does not always hold up. The film is shot against some attractive mountain scenery, and the action sequences, especially the hunt for the missing stallion, are well done. This is a film which will appeal to anyone with an interest in Australia's past, as well to all horse-lovers. 7/10
That's Mustangs to us Yanks
bkoganbing10 September 2005
I must confess that I watched this film because I am a Kirk Douglas fan and I certainly was not disappointed in the dual performance he gives as two brothers, one an owner of the Australian equivalent of the Ponderosa and his hermit brother who lives up in the mountains among the wild horses and befriends young Tom Burlinson who becomes the man from Snowy River.
The film is a dramatization of a wild horse roundup such as you would have seen in the American West although American fans might be first thrown by use of the Aussie term 'brumbies'. What the origin of that idiom is I don't know, but for us Yanks just think 'mustang' and it will all become clear.
In fact I just finished a book on Australian general Sir Thomas Blamey and it is mentioned that during his boyhood in Wagga Wagga, he broke and rode 'brumbies.'
And of course the title and part of the plot is based on A.B. "Banjo" Patterson's poem. Patterson himself appears as a passing character in the film and presumably he was inspired by the incidents to write that poem.
Patterson for Australians is sort of a combination of Bret Harte and Mark Twain for Americans. That poem has a nice style and hopefully the poem The Man From Snowy River will be come as known in the western world at large as say Tennyson's Charge of the Light Brigade or Kipling's Gunga Din. In fact like in this film, Rudyard Kipling appears as a passing character in George Stevens's Gunga Din and fulfilled the same function there.
If the Australians felt they needed someone with the international star status of Kirk Douglas to open up the foreign market for this film, all well and good. I just hope Kirk's presence in the film did just that for this fine piece of entertainment.
And this review is dedicated to a couple Australian bull riders from the Professional Bull Riders whom I happened to meet, champions from the land down under, Jared Farley and Brendan Clark. No doubt descendants of the men who rode and broke those brumbies back in the day.
The film is a dramatization of a wild horse roundup such as you would have seen in the American West although American fans might be first thrown by use of the Aussie term 'brumbies'. What the origin of that idiom is I don't know, but for us Yanks just think 'mustang' and it will all become clear.
In fact I just finished a book on Australian general Sir Thomas Blamey and it is mentioned that during his boyhood in Wagga Wagga, he broke and rode 'brumbies.'
And of course the title and part of the plot is based on A.B. "Banjo" Patterson's poem. Patterson himself appears as a passing character in the film and presumably he was inspired by the incidents to write that poem.
Patterson for Australians is sort of a combination of Bret Harte and Mark Twain for Americans. That poem has a nice style and hopefully the poem The Man From Snowy River will be come as known in the western world at large as say Tennyson's Charge of the Light Brigade or Kipling's Gunga Din. In fact like in this film, Rudyard Kipling appears as a passing character in George Stevens's Gunga Din and fulfilled the same function there.
If the Australians felt they needed someone with the international star status of Kirk Douglas to open up the foreign market for this film, all well and good. I just hope Kirk's presence in the film did just that for this fine piece of entertainment.
And this review is dedicated to a couple Australian bull riders from the Professional Bull Riders whom I happened to meet, champions from the land down under, Jared Farley and Brendan Clark. No doubt descendants of the men who rode and broke those brumbies back in the day.
Family Entertainment At Its Best
movieratings033 July 2006
THE MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER ***** An Australian western that centers its story on a coming-of-age mountain man (Tom Burlinson) who's father dies and must go to the lowlands to earn enough money to support the family farm. There, he finds work at a cattle ranch owned by Kirk Douglas, who wants to expand his success to something greater: unmined gold in the mountains. As Burlinson comes to grips with his new work setting and first love (Sigrid Thornton), he evolves into the man he needs to be to follow in his father's footsteps back home. It's excellent family entertainment, with a story that is basic enough for everyone to comprehend, yet doesn't hold a corny or simpleton status because of it. Be sure to rent it.
"He's not a lad brother, he's a man."
classicsoncall10 June 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Midway through the film Mrs. Bailey confronts Harrison (Kirk Douglas) with the story of his wife, in love with two men and deciding to marry the first one to make his fortune. Harrison staked it all on a gamble and won. His brother Spur - "He went looking for gold".
Each character in their own way finds gold in "The Man From Snowy River". For Jim Craig (Tim Burlinson) it's the pursuit of manhood and finding the confidence in himself to challenge an autocratic father. For Jessica (Sigrid Thornton) it's found in an ideal of being true to one's self against daunting odds. For mountain man Spur (Douglas in a dual role), it's a reuniting with family and a chance to mean something to someone else. Even Harrison finds his own gold, though it will take him some time after the movie's over to realize it.
Filmed against a backdrop of a stunning Australian wilderness, the movie introduces new language to this fan of the Western genre. Until now I had never heard of a brumby (a wild horse), and found it interesting that they travel in mobs, rather than herds. The adventurous spirit in me was rather intrigued by the mention of wallaby stew, one of Spur's featured menu items. In a comedic moment though, he mentions to the Harrison cook his fondness for plump breast and tenderloin.
It struck me that the film has a uniquely timeless appeal. Filmed in 1982, it doesn't feel dated and looks like it could have been made today even though the story itself takes place in 1888. Perhaps that's one of the hallmarks of a good film, a story that transcends it's chronological setting to carry on it's appeal for future viewers.
There's only one troublesome thing though, and for a family film, it bothered me that more men joined Harrison to look for his runaway colt than for his missing daughter. Sadly, value placed on things often had more importance than value placed on people, even in the 1800's.
Each character in their own way finds gold in "The Man From Snowy River". For Jim Craig (Tim Burlinson) it's the pursuit of manhood and finding the confidence in himself to challenge an autocratic father. For Jessica (Sigrid Thornton) it's found in an ideal of being true to one's self against daunting odds. For mountain man Spur (Douglas in a dual role), it's a reuniting with family and a chance to mean something to someone else. Even Harrison finds his own gold, though it will take him some time after the movie's over to realize it.
Filmed against a backdrop of a stunning Australian wilderness, the movie introduces new language to this fan of the Western genre. Until now I had never heard of a brumby (a wild horse), and found it interesting that they travel in mobs, rather than herds. The adventurous spirit in me was rather intrigued by the mention of wallaby stew, one of Spur's featured menu items. In a comedic moment though, he mentions to the Harrison cook his fondness for plump breast and tenderloin.
It struck me that the film has a uniquely timeless appeal. Filmed in 1982, it doesn't feel dated and looks like it could have been made today even though the story itself takes place in 1888. Perhaps that's one of the hallmarks of a good film, a story that transcends it's chronological setting to carry on it's appeal for future viewers.
There's only one troublesome thing though, and for a family film, it bothered me that more men joined Harrison to look for his runaway colt than for his missing daughter. Sadly, value placed on things often had more importance than value placed on people, even in the 1800's.
Still my favorite
TexVanWinkle19 April 2003
Shawshank is superb. Roman Holiday is perfect. Raiders is a blast. But The Man from Snowy River has been, is, and always will be my favorite movie. Some movies just match your personality more than others, trumping any technical deficiencies they may have. No, Snowy River doesn't have the best acting, the best screenplay, the best direction. But in all of them it's great, and the combination of the story, the cast, the scenery, and music (Bruce Rowland deserved an Oscar for his score) is much greater than the sum of its parts. For me, it's everything a movie ought to be: uplifting, heartwarming, optimistic, romantic, adventurous. It swept me away when I was 13 and its magic hasn't dimmed at 34. What a wonderful movie.
True-blue Aussie Tale
gcd702 March 2008
Warning: Spoilers
This is a great true-blue Aussie tale of the legendary bushman "The Man From Snowy River" and his fictional exploits in capturing the colt from "Old Regret" (as told of in the famous poem by A.B. "Banjo" Patterson).
Bruce Rowland has provided a classic, at times rousing score while lenser Keith Wagstaff breathes life into some spectacular and exciting scenery from the Victorian high country. In fact the spectacular stunts (involving some daring, outlandish riding) and amazing cinematography are the definite highlights. John Dixon and Fred Cullen have developed a reasonable, though at times melodramatic, screenplay, however it is the eye catching horsemanship that's really worth waiting for.
Tom Burlinson is well suited to the role of young Jim Craig, whose self belief is not at all misplaced, and Sigrid Thornton makes a fine feisty heroine. Good support comes from Lorraine Bayly and Chris Haywood, with especially enjoyable, though short, turns from Gus Mercurio and Jack Thompson - the latter as legendary "Clancy of the Overflow". The star import is veteran American actor Kirk Douglas, who does well as twin brothers Harrison and Spur, two aging gents who had a terrible falling out several years ago. While he is convincing on screen, Douglas was apparently not very happy with the pressure of having just two or three takes to get things right. He reputedly changed some of his lines, and is even said to have stormed off on a nag at the completion of filming. Perhaps his failure to return for the sequel is confirmation of his dissatisfaction.
Sunday, December 17, 1995 - Video
Bruce Rowland has provided a classic, at times rousing score while lenser Keith Wagstaff breathes life into some spectacular and exciting scenery from the Victorian high country. In fact the spectacular stunts (involving some daring, outlandish riding) and amazing cinematography are the definite highlights. John Dixon and Fred Cullen have developed a reasonable, though at times melodramatic, screenplay, however it is the eye catching horsemanship that's really worth waiting for.
Tom Burlinson is well suited to the role of young Jim Craig, whose self belief is not at all misplaced, and Sigrid Thornton makes a fine feisty heroine. Good support comes from Lorraine Bayly and Chris Haywood, with especially enjoyable, though short, turns from Gus Mercurio and Jack Thompson - the latter as legendary "Clancy of the Overflow". The star import is veteran American actor Kirk Douglas, who does well as twin brothers Harrison and Spur, two aging gents who had a terrible falling out several years ago. While he is convincing on screen, Douglas was apparently not very happy with the pressure of having just two or three takes to get things right. He reputedly changed some of his lines, and is even said to have stormed off on a nag at the completion of filming. Perhaps his failure to return for the sequel is confirmation of his dissatisfaction.
Sunday, December 17, 1995 - Video
15 years later, the movie is still fresh
mihee2 October 1999
It is hard to believe that so many years has past since I first saw "A Man from Snowy River." I was young and borrowed it on Betamax (yes Betamax) from a friend. Although I wish that I could of seen a full screen version of it, I will have to settle with the still fantastic small screen version.
The story is fairly simple. After his father dies, a boy tries to prove he a man worthy enough to live on his beloved Snowy Mountain. In order achieve this prize, he finds work on lower ground on a big ranch. A sweet romance is set between Jim, the boy, and the Rancher's daughter, Jessica, who is a feisty and strong female. There are wild horses, a sympathetic-but-bad-guy rancher, and beautiful scenery all which are an integral part of the story. (I don't want to give too much of the movie away).
I recently saw this movie (this time on VHS)with my niece and nephew. I could not believe how much I enjoyed it again. The thrilling horse riding scenes kept me at the edge of my seat. It is an ultimate family film one that has no foul language, gratuitous sex or violence. Nothing is dumbed down, the viewers being treated with the respect we deserve. GO RENT IT NOW!
The story is fairly simple. After his father dies, a boy tries to prove he a man worthy enough to live on his beloved Snowy Mountain. In order achieve this prize, he finds work on lower ground on a big ranch. A sweet romance is set between Jim, the boy, and the Rancher's daughter, Jessica, who is a feisty and strong female. There are wild horses, a sympathetic-but-bad-guy rancher, and beautiful scenery all which are an integral part of the story. (I don't want to give too much of the movie away).
I recently saw this movie (this time on VHS)with my niece and nephew. I could not believe how much I enjoyed it again. The thrilling horse riding scenes kept me at the edge of my seat. It is an ultimate family film one that has no foul language, gratuitous sex or violence. Nothing is dumbed down, the viewers being treated with the respect we deserve. GO RENT IT NOW!
Hot headed honcho and hillbilly horsemen hunt horses in high hill heath
helpless_dancer26 August 2001
Horse lover are you? This will be the ticket for you because they were in abundance. Good tale of lost love, rejection, and romance set in the Austrailian outback: truly magnificent scenery. Good acting and lots of action kept the pace quick and interesting in this story of life when men were men and so were women.
Grand and Timeless
adrongardner17 March 2010
Clint Eastwood and Unforgiven be damned. This is by far the best western of the modern era. Its an Aussie tale, but that does not disqualify it in my books. Lonesome Dove has its group as does Unforgiven. But George Miller's The Man from Snowy River is downright majestic.
There are no stagecoaches, revenge killings, poker games or joking jail hands. There isn't even a climactic standoff in a dusty old town. But there is the hand of a maiden to win and inner demons to slay. The climax isn't a shoot out with a band of criminals, but with a stallion and a lonely ride down a rocky mountain.
Director George Miller draws clear characters and honest human situations. He understands what a camera can do. Scenes of great power play out not in a tired miasma of gunfire or hokey soliloquies, but in the striations of muscle from a horse powering through rock in slow motion. George Miler is a poet. And the Man from Snowy River is a story that will stand the test of time. See it.
There are no stagecoaches, revenge killings, poker games or joking jail hands. There isn't even a climactic standoff in a dusty old town. But there is the hand of a maiden to win and inner demons to slay. The climax isn't a shoot out with a band of criminals, but with a stallion and a lonely ride down a rocky mountain.
Director George Miller draws clear characters and honest human situations. He understands what a camera can do. Scenes of great power play out not in a tired miasma of gunfire or hokey soliloquies, but in the striations of muscle from a horse powering through rock in slow motion. George Miler is a poet. And the Man from Snowy River is a story that will stand the test of time. See it.
Australian saddle saga adventure about an orphaned young man coming of age in the mountains
ma-cortes5 May 2015
Fairly ordinary movie about a boy suddenly alone in the world . In 1880s Australia , Victoria Alps , when young Jim Craig's father (Terence Donovan) dies he becomes an orphan boy and he is seeking a life of his own . Meanwhile , a reclusive mountain man (a bearded Kirk Douglas) helps Jim overcome his sudden state as an orphan . Jim (Tom Burlison) takes a job at the Harrison cattle ranch and there the men challenge him and then he is forced to become a man . Jim falls in love with the well brought-up Jessica (young and beautiful lead Sigrid Thornton) . But her daddy (non-bearded Kirk Douglas, though Burt Lancaster and Robert Mitchum were also considered for the dual role) aims to keep the lovers apart . And a wild horse is a stunning highlight .
This big hit entertaining adventure contains melodrama , thrills , action , a love story , spectacular outdoors and stunning photography highlights . More like Disney style than a John Ford Western , this Australian film takes its wake from ¨Wilderness family¨ saga . Being based on the poem by A.B. 'Banjo' Paterson , scripted by Fred Cullen and John Dixon . Very good acting by the great Kirk Douglas in a dual character -a cheap gimmick of casting- , as portraying two battling brothers , one a wealthy land-owner and the other an one-legged prospector . The starring couple , Tom Burlison and Sigrid Thornton , suffers through the inexperience and being newcomers actors . Tom Burlinson performed all his own horse riding stunts in the film . Colorful cinematography , as photography of horses in breathtaking . It was an Australian huge success and was one of fifty Australian films selected for preservation as part of the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia . It is continued by ¨Return to Snowy River¨ by Geoff Burrowes who produced first entry and also with spectacular scenarios . Following the lives of the previous ranch hand and the rich rancher's daughter ; Brian Dennehy takes over from from Kirk role as stubborn dad .
This Down Under motion picture filled with enjoyable moments was professionally directed by George Miller , but with no originality because takes too many elements from former films . Not to be confused with another Australian director, George Miller, of the Mad Max movies . Miller is an Australian director usually working for television (Tidal wave , Journey to the center of the earth , Attack of the Sabretooth and many others) and occasionally for cinema (The man from Snowy river , Zeus and Roxanne , Robinson Crusoe ). Rating : 6 . Acceptable and entertaining flick with glimmer cinematography making the whole film worthwhile watching .
This big hit entertaining adventure contains melodrama , thrills , action , a love story , spectacular outdoors and stunning photography highlights . More like Disney style than a John Ford Western , this Australian film takes its wake from ¨Wilderness family¨ saga . Being based on the poem by A.B. 'Banjo' Paterson , scripted by Fred Cullen and John Dixon . Very good acting by the great Kirk Douglas in a dual character -a cheap gimmick of casting- , as portraying two battling brothers , one a wealthy land-owner and the other an one-legged prospector . The starring couple , Tom Burlison and Sigrid Thornton , suffers through the inexperience and being newcomers actors . Tom Burlinson performed all his own horse riding stunts in the film . Colorful cinematography , as photography of horses in breathtaking . It was an Australian huge success and was one of fifty Australian films selected for preservation as part of the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia . It is continued by ¨Return to Snowy River¨ by Geoff Burrowes who produced first entry and also with spectacular scenarios . Following the lives of the previous ranch hand and the rich rancher's daughter ; Brian Dennehy takes over from from Kirk role as stubborn dad .
This Down Under motion picture filled with enjoyable moments was professionally directed by George Miller , but with no originality because takes too many elements from former films . Not to be confused with another Australian director, George Miller, of the Mad Max movies . Miller is an Australian director usually working for television (Tidal wave , Journey to the center of the earth , Attack of the Sabretooth and many others) and occasionally for cinema (The man from Snowy river , Zeus and Roxanne , Robinson Crusoe ). Rating : 6 . Acceptable and entertaining flick with glimmer cinematography making the whole film worthwhile watching .
a part of Australia's culture
wcashley27 September 2010
This movie is both perfect and imperfect. Perfect because it has amazing horse riding scenes, beautiful cinematography and music, wonderful acting from Jack Thompson who captures the quintessential Clancy of the Overflow of Australian legend, and a great performance from Tom Burlinson, and showcases the skills of the 'real deal' cattlemen of the high country who acted as extras in the horse chase scenes, and finally because it can bring a tear to the eye the way Banjo Paterson's poem has for 120 years. This film was clearly a work of love and that is wonderfully conveyed.
However it's also imperfect because Kirk Douglas simply doesn't work in this context, and his two roles seem at times ridiculous. The storyline also meanders around at times, mostly in relation to one of Douglas's two characters, and it just seems a pity that an otherwise wonderful film has these flaws.
This is a movie to stir the heart, and well worth watching, and the horse chase scenes in the movie are now as much a part of Australia's culture as the original poem.
However it's also imperfect because Kirk Douglas simply doesn't work in this context, and his two roles seem at times ridiculous. The storyline also meanders around at times, mostly in relation to one of Douglas's two characters, and it just seems a pity that an otherwise wonderful film has these flaws.
This is a movie to stir the heart, and well worth watching, and the horse chase scenes in the movie are now as much a part of Australia's culture as the original poem.
romantic western epic
SnoopyStyle10 December 2017
It's 1888 Australia. Young Jim Craig loses his father in a logging accident partly due to a wild horse herd led by a black stallion. Fellow mountain men claim that Jim has not earn the experience to work the property. Spur (Kirk Douglas) is an one-legged miner friend of the family. Jim goes into town and finds work at the ranch of Spur's wealthy brother Harrison (Kirk Douglas). It's love at first fight with Harrison's daughter Jessica (Sigrid Thornton). The brothers ignore each other over a 20 year old sibling feud.
This is an Australian western romantic epic. I remember this movie being a trailer mention during my childhood with the cable movie channel. It didn't appeal to a young boy for obvious reasons. This is very much a romantic frontier fable. It is traditional western with a dash of modern independence. The landscape is as epic as the story construct. The only strange aspect is that I kept wondering why Jim doesn't tell Jessica about her uncle Spur. It's strange for him to keep a secret from her. It might work even better if the brothers were played by different actors and they reveal their secret family connection late in the movie. Otherwise, it's a great romantic epic.
This is an Australian western romantic epic. I remember this movie being a trailer mention during my childhood with the cable movie channel. It didn't appeal to a young boy for obvious reasons. This is very much a romantic frontier fable. It is traditional western with a dash of modern independence. The landscape is as epic as the story construct. The only strange aspect is that I kept wondering why Jim doesn't tell Jessica about her uncle Spur. It's strange for him to keep a secret from her. It might work even better if the brothers were played by different actors and they reveal their secret family connection late in the movie. Otherwise, it's a great romantic epic.
Sadly it just wasn't for me
Robert_duder9 November 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I won't write this review crapping all over a modern day classic like The Man From Snowy River. I know many adore this film and think of it fondly with great nostalgia. I waited a very long time to see it and finally decided to give it a try. I love westerns, 80's films and Disney classics but for some reason this didn't strike the right chord with me. Despite a promising concept, I found the film dawdles along without ever having a lot of chemistry between the key characters. The performances are good, in fact one in particular is excellent but its lacking depth when it comes to the relationships. The scenery is stunning and yet I felt like the film makers underused the breathtaking Australian outback. The film definitely shows a lot of beautiful horses so people that are looking for that will enjoy it. There is somehow a lack of significant emotion to a story that should be full of moving moments. The romance which should be a focal point in the latter part of the movie feels forced and rushed and very technical. There are some moments where it feels like they're actually bartering for the romantic lead.
Tom Burlinson is our lead in the film. He is okay but he is also a key reason the characters lack emotion. He feels almost stoic at times and well he is always determined he wasn't necessarily the right choice for the lead of the movie. Kirk Douglas is literally the reason to watch this movie. He is amazing in a dual role as Harrison and Spur. Both characters are so different from each other and he just absolutely nails both. He is so obviously the seasoned professional and it shows. Sigrid Thornton is the object of Burlinson's affections but also causes one of the biggest issues with the movie. Thornton looks almost stunned throughout her entire performance and the chemistry between her and Burlinson is practically nil. Its almost painful to watch their so called romance unfold and yet I had heard what a classic love story this was but I didn't get it at all. Supporting cast is alright but no one really stands out as being noteworthy.
Coming from a long history in Television director George Miller has done a lot of TV and a lot of straight to TV movies. I don't think he had the experience in movies to handle this and make it outstanding. Imagine this film in the hands of a truly amazing director who stuns with cinematography and could handle the script better. That being said, the script left a lot to be desired too. I suppose I was even more let down because this seems like the type of movie I would absolutely adore and I didn't. My expectations were high because so many people just rave about this and they love it and I respect that. I am not saying that its a terrible movie but it certainly didn't appeal to me at all. Someday I may watch the sequel but I'm not anxious to see it for sure. This was a miss in my books. 5.5/10
Tom Burlinson is our lead in the film. He is okay but he is also a key reason the characters lack emotion. He feels almost stoic at times and well he is always determined he wasn't necessarily the right choice for the lead of the movie. Kirk Douglas is literally the reason to watch this movie. He is amazing in a dual role as Harrison and Spur. Both characters are so different from each other and he just absolutely nails both. He is so obviously the seasoned professional and it shows. Sigrid Thornton is the object of Burlinson's affections but also causes one of the biggest issues with the movie. Thornton looks almost stunned throughout her entire performance and the chemistry between her and Burlinson is practically nil. Its almost painful to watch their so called romance unfold and yet I had heard what a classic love story this was but I didn't get it at all. Supporting cast is alright but no one really stands out as being noteworthy.
Coming from a long history in Television director George Miller has done a lot of TV and a lot of straight to TV movies. I don't think he had the experience in movies to handle this and make it outstanding. Imagine this film in the hands of a truly amazing director who stuns with cinematography and could handle the script better. That being said, the script left a lot to be desired too. I suppose I was even more let down because this seems like the type of movie I would absolutely adore and I didn't. My expectations were high because so many people just rave about this and they love it and I respect that. I am not saying that its a terrible movie but it certainly didn't appeal to me at all. Someday I may watch the sequel but I'm not anxious to see it for sure. This was a miss in my books. 5.5/10
A Favorite
mreneming4 September 2004
The Man from Snowy River is a family favorite. The cinematography of this film was breath-taking. The love story was convincing and the acting was superb. Kirk Douglas plays both the father and the brother and although the plot is somewhat contrived, it is set up extremely well. All of the elements work to make a good movie and one that I watch over and over. The scenes of the Australian mountains and the horses along with the musical score make this a very picturesque, romantic, and warm film. A romance and an action-adventure movie rolled into one which can charm a woman and still be a manly film. The 2nd movie Return to Snowy River was a worthy sequel and Tom Burlinson as Jim Craig does an excellent job in both films. If you are a horse lover, I would definitely recommend this film.
Tom is great
petersj-27 September 2009
Kirk Douglas is great in two roles and Jack Thompson is there as he is in just about every other Aussie film these two fine actors get star billing. Jack plays Clancy of the Overflow but its really a cameo. The real star of the film is a young Tom Burlinson and he not only looks great he gives the most heart warming natural performance. It is Tom's film. The producers felt there needed to be a love interest and poor Tom gets Sigrid Thornton who is the only disappointment in the film. Thornton delivers her dialogue quite stiffly almost as though she is reading. There is more romance and chemistry between Tom and the horse than there is with poor old Singrid. The scene of her rescue is however spectacular. But forget all that and feast your eyes on Tom and enjoy the glorious scenery, listen to a magnificent score. Some of the dialogue is rather twee especially when there are direct quotes from Patterson's brilliant poetry. The poem is a great classic and Banjo is one of the greatest writers of all time.
A Magnificent Movie
Gator195521 December 2004
My ONLY regret about this movie is that I didn't go with my wife and her brother to see it in the theater. Its magnificent scenery is paled on the small screen. As for the plot, it's the classic "boy turns into a man" tale. Jim Craig's father dies and Jim must move off the mountain until he's earned the right to live on the mountain.
He's a prideful young man and falls in love with a powerful rancher's daughter who he has more in common with than he realizes. Rather than spoil the plot, take my word for it, this is a great movie. No, it does not have the best acting in the world; however, Sigrid Thornton is a noted Australian actress on a par with some our own American actresses. This movie is a must see and the soundtrack will stick in your mind for years...it's even used as the intro music for one of the network's golf broadcasts.
He's a prideful young man and falls in love with a powerful rancher's daughter who he has more in common with than he realizes. Rather than spoil the plot, take my word for it, this is a great movie. No, it does not have the best acting in the world; however, Sigrid Thornton is a noted Australian actress on a par with some our own American actresses. This movie is a must see and the soundtrack will stick in your mind for years...it's even used as the intro music for one of the network's golf broadcasts.
The Man from Snowy River
swmoncur21 February 2022
I love a good western-not because they're always incredibly well made or deep, but because of their simplicity. Man From Snowy River wasn't anything especially praiseworthy, but it had a good storyline, solid acting, and was an easy watch for a lazy weekend at the cabin.
One of my all time favorite movies
blanton326 March 2010
This movie is absolutely one of the best movies ever made. It is an excellent story, beautiful music, and lots of horses. The cinematography is excellent. The scenes of the horse chase, in my opinion, hasn't been equaled. The actors, for the most part are good,but no academy performances with the exception of Kirk Douglas, who does an excellent job playing a dual role.However, the story is good, and there is no foul language, nudity, or smuttiness. If you just want to sit down with a bowl of popcorn and spend a good evening watching a good movie, you won't go wrong here. I can watch it every time it's on.
Positive
r96sk18 September 2020
The plot isn't massively interesting to me, but some fine acting alongside terrific cinematography and editing keeps 'The Man from Snowy River' going at a positive level.
Tom Burlinson is good as Jim, while Kirk Douglas does a top job in a dual role as Harrison & Spur. The rest of the cast are solid. The storyline is watchable and I did enjoy it, but it just wasn't anything I could sink my teeth into; it's a little plain. However, as noted at the top, I do love how the film is put together; particularly with the horses, across the running shots especially. Australia looks nice, too!
Interested to see where the sequel goes, I assume it'll follow-up directly on the final scene of this one but we'll see. As for this 1982 production, I rate it.
Tom Burlinson is good as Jim, while Kirk Douglas does a top job in a dual role as Harrison & Spur. The rest of the cast are solid. The storyline is watchable and I did enjoy it, but it just wasn't anything I could sink my teeth into; it's a little plain. However, as noted at the top, I do love how the film is put together; particularly with the horses, across the running shots especially. Australia looks nice, too!
Interested to see where the sequel goes, I assume it'll follow-up directly on the final scene of this one but we'll see. As for this 1982 production, I rate it.
Snowy Mountains
Jaime_angel_abc19 March 2007
THE MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER....
There was movement at the station......
The Man From Snowy River tells it how it is. I go up in the snowy mountains on my horse to drive cattle and love going to the exact places the the movie was made. I have camped over in Craig's hut and camped in the snowy's. There are only a few brumbies left up there because of people shooting them but now and then you catch a glimpse of brown and black, dim shadow's on the grass. It is THE greatest place on earth. I hope everyone who see's this movie appreciate's the magic of the snowy mountains and the high country.
There was movement at the station......
The Man From Snowy River tells it how it is. I go up in the snowy mountains on my horse to drive cattle and love going to the exact places the the movie was made. I have camped over in Craig's hut and camped in the snowy's. There are only a few brumbies left up there because of people shooting them but now and then you catch a glimpse of brown and black, dim shadow's on the grass. It is THE greatest place on earth. I hope everyone who see's this movie appreciate's the magic of the snowy mountains and the high country.
Good film, but a bit too slow for my liking.
paulclaassen30 September 2020
I've long since wanted to see this film because of its good reviews and high ratings. Now that I've seen it I can't really say my film knowledge would have been any poorer had I not seen it.
Don't get me wrong, this is a good film. Its just not entirely my type of film, and I didn't find it all that compelling. I did enjoy Jim (Tom Burlinson), who was a young, but strong character. Jim is very determined, who overcomes obstacle upon obstacle with ease. Jessica (Sigrid Thornton) as the love interest was an equally determined and strong-willed character, and found these two complemented one another. It was interesting seeing Kirk Douglas portraying two very different characters.
As for the film in general, I did find it a bit slow moving. Nevertheless, as I said, it is a good story and anyone who enjoy a romantic drama with a bit of adventure, will surely enjoy this. The film features beautiful cinematography and great silhouette shots. 'The Man from Snowy River' certainly is worth a watch.
'The Man from Snowy River' received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Foreign Film (Australia). It was a hit at the box office, earning $20.6 million on a $3.5 million budget.
Would I watch it again? I doubt it.
Don't get me wrong, this is a good film. Its just not entirely my type of film, and I didn't find it all that compelling. I did enjoy Jim (Tom Burlinson), who was a young, but strong character. Jim is very determined, who overcomes obstacle upon obstacle with ease. Jessica (Sigrid Thornton) as the love interest was an equally determined and strong-willed character, and found these two complemented one another. It was interesting seeing Kirk Douglas portraying two very different characters.
As for the film in general, I did find it a bit slow moving. Nevertheless, as I said, it is a good story and anyone who enjoy a romantic drama with a bit of adventure, will surely enjoy this. The film features beautiful cinematography and great silhouette shots. 'The Man from Snowy River' certainly is worth a watch.
'The Man from Snowy River' received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Foreign Film (Australia). It was a hit at the box office, earning $20.6 million on a $3.5 million budget.
Would I watch it again? I doubt it.
Superb example of quality Australian film
lady_writer10 December 1999
The Man From Snowy River (1982) demonstrates the quality of the Australian film industry in recent years. The cinematography, the score, the quality of acting - all combine to make this film a romantic classic, a Gone With the Wind parallel. Having grown up with this film, twelve years later, it is the still the most beautiful, most awesomely inspiring epic I have ever seen. Clearly one of the best stories of love, life and horses ever filmed in one of the most astounding paradises on Earth.
Woooah!
elgaroo7 February 2006
I am not sure what to say about this film, but I feel I must say something. Technically, in pretty much every single way possible, this is one of the worst, cheesiest, flagrantly lame movies ever made...BUT I found that it went SOOO far over the top, it was actually laugh-out-loud ridiculous and funny enough that I actually watched the whole flipping thing, all the way through. If it was just dumb that would be one thing, but I was actually seriously amused.
I do not really mean to offend the obviously numerous people who wax sentimental over this film...I am coming at this from a mostly technical, post-post modern point of view. That said, this film is 100% cheese, completely derivative and unoriginal, pulling out every film cliché in the book. It is nothing but emotional fluff designed to shamelessly tug at the heart strings of young girls, and maybe older women, and show off some pretty horse flesh and scenery. The writing is ridiculous, the acting mostly totally flat and lame, the directing silly, and the editing seams to have been done completely at random by a five year old. Scenes are muddy and confused. The film starts out of nowhere in what seams to be an unintelligible conversation.
But it really is such a bad movie that it is absolutely hilarious, much more so than most. This really does not seam to be intentional. The flagrant cliché's, the repetition of stock footage, the cheesy "doom" music every time the evil stallion makes an appearance, the horribly written and staged harassment of the main character, and the wonderful shot where the evil stallion rears up all crazy like, and the frame actually freezes, and zooms in on his crazy eye in stages with the "dun dun dun!" music! Yeah, they really went there, and we laughed so hard we had to rewind!) But all said, the crazy miner was a fun character and well acted. And I had a good time.
I apologize again for everyone I am offending, I do not mean to hurt with the humor I feel in my heart.
Peace.
I do not really mean to offend the obviously numerous people who wax sentimental over this film...I am coming at this from a mostly technical, post-post modern point of view. That said, this film is 100% cheese, completely derivative and unoriginal, pulling out every film cliché in the book. It is nothing but emotional fluff designed to shamelessly tug at the heart strings of young girls, and maybe older women, and show off some pretty horse flesh and scenery. The writing is ridiculous, the acting mostly totally flat and lame, the directing silly, and the editing seams to have been done completely at random by a five year old. Scenes are muddy and confused. The film starts out of nowhere in what seams to be an unintelligible conversation.
But it really is such a bad movie that it is absolutely hilarious, much more so than most. This really does not seam to be intentional. The flagrant cliché's, the repetition of stock footage, the cheesy "doom" music every time the evil stallion makes an appearance, the horribly written and staged harassment of the main character, and the wonderful shot where the evil stallion rears up all crazy like, and the frame actually freezes, and zooms in on his crazy eye in stages with the "dun dun dun!" music! Yeah, they really went there, and we laughed so hard we had to rewind!) But all said, the crazy miner was a fun character and well acted. And I had a good time.
I apologize again for everyone I am offending, I do not mean to hurt with the humor I feel in my heart.
Peace.
Not Like It's Advertised
ccthemovieman-122 May 2006
Boy, I expected a lot more from this than it delivered. I had read where it was "spectacularly filmed." Well, it was pretty, but far less than "spectacular."
I read where it was a "rousing adventure." Well, it was so-so in the adventure department.
It was supposed to have "nothing offensive," according to reviewers Porter & Martin, but it had two usages of the Lord's name in vain (both by Kirk Douglas) and a half-dozen other profanities. Mainlike critics such as them really are clueless. This is just one example of many I have discovered along these lines.
Tom Burlinson is a likable Ethan Hawk-"White Fang"-type of hero in here. His female counterpart, Sigrid Thornton, is the opposite: she spends most of the movie pouting because she doesn't always get what she wants. She just becomes too irritating after awhile and helps spoil the story.
Some of the wild horse scenes are very nice and have good sound, too. I wish there were more them. Less language and less pouting from Thorton would have made this the nice film it was advertised to be, and wasn't.
I read where it was a "rousing adventure." Well, it was so-so in the adventure department.
It was supposed to have "nothing offensive," according to reviewers Porter & Martin, but it had two usages of the Lord's name in vain (both by Kirk Douglas) and a half-dozen other profanities. Mainlike critics such as them really are clueless. This is just one example of many I have discovered along these lines.
Tom Burlinson is a likable Ethan Hawk-"White Fang"-type of hero in here. His female counterpart, Sigrid Thornton, is the opposite: she spends most of the movie pouting because she doesn't always get what she wants. She just becomes too irritating after awhile and helps spoil the story.
Some of the wild horse scenes are very nice and have good sound, too. I wish there were more them. Less language and less pouting from Thorton would have made this the nice film it was advertised to be, and wasn't.
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