Terra Nullius (1992)

Terra Nullius (1992) poster

Loosely based on the filmmaker's personal experience, "Terra Nullius" is an impressionistic account of an eight year old Koori girl, Alice, growing up in a white adoptive family which denies her Aboriginality. The film examines how unacknowledged shame and fear passes from one generation to the next, from one culture to another. The last scene depicts a silent meeting between the young Alice and the adult Alice. In order to reclaim her life, Alice decides she must confront the pain and confusion of her childhood.

Director: Anne Pratten
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 21 min
Release Date:

Cast

Screenplay

Music: Andrew Lancaster, Felicity Fox
Cinematography: Jackie Farkas
Editing: Anne Pratten
Production: Ronin Films, Australian Film Television and Radio School
Country: Australia
Language: English
Original Language: en

Themes

Overcoming Traumas of the Past, Sexual Assault Trauma and Survival, Social Commentary and Reflection

Keywords

australia, trauma, based on true story, racism, racial slur, racial prejudice, generational, impressionist, woman director, indigenous australians, australian aboriginal, 1960s, adoptive parent, self-harm, traumatized child

More Films by Director: Anne Pratten
More Films in Genre: Drama

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Terra Nullius about?
Loosely based on the filmmaker's personal experience, "Terra Nullius" is an impressionistic account of an eight year old Koori girl, Alice, growing up in a white adoptive family which denies her Aboriginality. The film examines how unacknowledged shame and fear passes from one generation to the next, from one culture to another. The last scene depicts a silent meeting between the young Alice and the adult Alice. In order to reclaim her life, Alice decides she must confront the pain and confusion of her childhood.
Who directed Terra Nullius?
Terra Nullius was directed by Anne Pratten.
Who stars in Terra Nullius?
Terra Nullius stars Michelle Lacombe, Olivia Patten, Wendy Playfair, Dacre King, Kristina Bloomstrand, Enid Freeman.
How long is Terra Nullius?
Terra Nullius has a runtime of 21m (21 minutes).
What genre is Terra Nullius?
Terra Nullius is a Drama film.
Where was Terra Nullius produced?
Terra Nullius was produced in Australia.
What are the themes of Terra Nullius?
The themes of Terra Nullius include: Overcoming Traumas of the Past, Sexual Assault Trauma and Survival, Social Commentary and Reflection.