Deep Dive: Jandamarra's War (2011)
Film Lens
Jandamarra's War is a 2011 Australian drama documentary that recounts the life of Jandamarra, a notable Aboriginal warrior of the Bunuba people from Western Australia. The film begins with Jandamarra's early years, including his birth in 1873 and his relocation with his mother Jinny to Lennard River Flats. This move was prompted by the violence of European colonists against Aboriginal Australians. The narrative follows his teenage years, his initiation into Bunuba Law, and his subsequent imprisonment after being caught spearing sheep.
The film portrays Jandamarra's rebellion against European settlers in 1894, highlighting his efforts to defend Bunuba land and culture. It also covers his last years spent in Djumbud, where he evaded police, leading to local beliefs in his magical powers. The film concludes with his death at the hands of Aboriginal tracker Mungo Micki, presenting Jandamarra not just as a fighter but as a complex individual shaped by his experiences and the historical context of his time.
Why Watch
- •Meet Jandamarra, a Bunuba warrior and resistance fighter.
- •Find out about his life on Bunuba land in Western Australia.
- •See the impact of European colonization on Aboriginal culture.
Did You Know
•Jandamarra was born in 1873 and relocated at age seven.
•He led a rebellion against Europeans in 1894 lasting three years.
•Jandamarra was expelled from Bunuba society for sleeping with other men's women.
•He was shot dead by Mungo Micki, an Aboriginal tracker.
Perfect For
Aboriginal historyAustralian colonialismIndigenous resistance