The film “Quigley Down Under” merges the gritty charm of Westerns with the unique setting of the Australian outback. Released in 1990, this neo-western adventure showcases the acting prowess of Tom Selleck as sharpshooter Matthew Quigley and Alan Rickman as the antagonist, offering a fresh take on the classic American film genre down under.
The movie’s storyline captivates audiences with the tale of a foreign marksman entangled in the unexpected ethical and cultural complexities of Australia as he takes what he thinks is just another job.
The production of “Quigley Down Under” took full advantage of the vast and diverse Australian landscapes, providing an authentic backdrop that was both visually stunning and integral to the film’s narrative.
The filming was conducted in various locations across Australia, notably in parts of Victoria, Northern Territory, and New South Wales.
Such authenticity not only lent itself to the film’s visual appeal but also played a critical role in underlining the underlying themes of cultural conflict and frontier justice depicted in the movie. Do you want to know more about where was Quigley Down Under filmed? Let’s find out together!
Contents
Key Takeaways
- “Quigley Down Under” combines western genre with Australian backdrop, starring Tom Selleck and Alan Rickman
- The film was shot in real locations across Australia, embracing its natural beauty and cultural depth
- The production and setting of the film contribute significantly to its narrative and the lasting impact it holds in the western genre
Film Synopsis and Cast
Diving into the heart of the wild Australian frontier, “Quigley Down Under” sets the stage for an action-packed adventure with a touch of drama. Here’s what you need to catch up on the saga and meet those who bring it to life.
Story Overview
In “Quigley Down Under,” Matthew Quigley (played by Tom Selleck) is an American sharpshooter with exceptional skills with a rifle. He’s lured to Australia by the promise of work from an Australian landowner, Elliot Marston (portrayed by Alan Rickman).
Upon his arrival, he encounters a shift in expectations that pits his moral compass against his employer’s desires, setting the stage for conflict and adventure.
Main Characters
- Matthew Quigley is our American rifleman hero, a character that combines a robust moral fiber with an almost mythical marksmanship
- The female lead, Crazy Cora (Laura San Giacomo), brings a blend of vulnerability and strength to the story. Her backstory is as tumultuous as the Australian wilderness, providing an emotional counterpoint to Quigley’s stoicism
- The antagonist, Elliot Marston, is a complex villain portrayed with a cold charisma by the late Alan Rickman. His air of superiority clashes with Quigley’s principled nature throughout the film
By focusing on these characters, the film weaves a narrative of bravery, resilience, and justice on the untamed Australian frontier.
Filming Locations
When the cameras rolled for “Quigley Down Under,” they captured some of Australia’s most stunning and rugged landscapes. From the dusty red heart of the outback to charming recreated historical sites, here’s where the magic happened. Let’s take a deeper look into where was Quigley Down Under filmed.
Australian Regions
Victoria: The southern state of Victoria lent its scenic locales to the film with the inclusion of towns like Warrnambool and Apollo Bay.
They not only provided coastal views but also a historical context with their 19th-century aesthetic.
Northern Territory: The heart of the film’s backdrop is in the Northern Territory, specifically the town of Alice Springs.
Known for its remote beauty, the region perfectly encapsulated the essence of the Australian Outback essential for the film’s authenticity.
Iconic Landmarks
Marston Station: Created for the film, this station was carefully constructed to mirror a 19th-century ranch, replete with all the trimmings of that era such as animal pens, stables, and a homestead house.
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum: Over in the fishing village segments, the museum in Victoria doubled as an 1860s port town, where viewers see the Aborigines helping Quigley.
Ross River Homestead: This historical property in the Northern Territory added to the film’s charm, offering an additional genuine touch of a bygone era, which can be felt throughout the movie.
Meekathanga: Western Australia contributed through Meekathanga, although it’s more a testament to the film’s production ingenuity, taking full advantage of museum replicas and the expansive landscapes this region provided.
Cultural Representation
In “Quigley Down Under,” the filmmakers sought to depict the historical backdrop of Australia, focusing on its indigenous people and the ranch culture of the 19th century. They attempted to balance cultural sensitivity with dramatic storytelling.
Indigenous People
The portrayal of Aboriginal Australians in “Quigley Down Under” reflects the era’s attitudes and the film’s efforts to present indigenous characters with respect and authenticity.
These characters are embedded in the plot, impacting the narrative and interacting with the protagonist.
It is essential to note that while the movie includes indigenous characters, the depth of their representation may not fully encompass the rich tapestry of Aboriginal culture.
19th-Century Setting
Set in Australia during the 19th century, the film portrays the lifestyle and challenges of that time.
Ranches, a cornerstone of the period’s economy, are a critical element of the setting.
Matthew Quigley, the main character played by Tom Selleck, arrives from America and encounters the vast and arduous world of an Australian rancher.
The portrayal of the ranch attempts to capture the expansiveness of the Australian outback and the hardships faced by those who worked and lived there.
This historical setting gives viewers a window into the past that is both educational and evocative.
Production Details
When “Quigley Down Under” transported audiences to the Australian frontier, the magic was conjured through authentic locations and a dedicated team. The fusion of score and scenery brought the 1990 Western film to life, while the direction and cinematography set the visual tone that fans came to love.
Behind The Scenes
Directed by Simon Wincer, “Quigley Down Under” is a testament to the wild allure of the action-packed Western film genre.
Director Simon Wincer, an Australian himself, brought an authentic touch to the film’s portrayal of the outback.
Filming primarily occurred in the Northern Territory’s Alice Springs, known for its quintessential Australian outback landscape, with some scenes captured in Victoria at Warrnambool and Apollo Bay, offering audiences a panoramic view of the land “Down Under.”
Fun Fact: The “Marston Station” set was meticulously constructed to echo a 19th-century ranch, giving actors like Tom Selleck (who played Matthew Quigley) a tangible sense of the era.
Music and Cinematography
The film owes much of its atmospheric depth to the combined efforts of two talented artists:
- Cinematographer David Eggby: His keen eye captured the essence of the rugged terrain, ensuring every frame could hold audiences captive with its expansive beauty
- Composer Basil Poledouris: Known for his ability to create emotive scores that complement the visuals, Poledouris’s music for “Quigley Down Under” was no different, providing a soul-stirring backdrop that supported the narrative’s dramatic arches
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of “Quigley Down Under” has resonated through the decades, leaving its mark on both film criticism and Australian tourism.
Critical Reception
“Quigley Down Under” received mixed reviews upon release, but one thing critics agreed on was the stunning backdrop against which the film was set.
- Los Angeles Times lauded the film for its picturesque scenery and adept use of the natural beauty that Australia offers
- They also appreciated how the film’s screenplay brought out the rugged allure of the Australian outback, captivating viewers and providing an authentic feel that critics appreciated
- Tom Selleck’s portrayal received positive nods for capturing the essence of an American sharpshooter in an Australian setting
Influence on Tourism
Showcasing Australia’s expansive national parks and natural beauty had an inadvertent yet significant impact on tourism.
- Travelers’ Destination: Locations featured in the film became a must-visit for many travelers. They were inspired after seeing the film’s striking visuals
- Tourism Upsurge: Local economies saw a boost as fans of the film flocked to witness the grandeur of the settings first-hand
Central Australia enjoyed heightened awareness as a tourist spot. Many sought to explore the areas they saw on the screen. This brought the landscapes of “Quigley Down Under” from mere backdrops to bucket-list destinations.
