Exploring Tasmania through Film: Notable Movies and TV Shows Shot on the Island

Tasmania, Australia’s island state, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique wildlife. Over the years, this picturesque location has become a magnet for filmmakers seeking breathtaking landscapes and charming settings for their projects. From thrilling blockbusters to heartwarming dramas, here are some of the most notable movies and TV shows made in Tasmania, offering you a chance to experience the island’s allure vicariously.

1. The Hunter (2011): Starring Willem Dafoe, “The Hunter” takes viewers on an enthralling journey as a tracker embarks on a mission to find a rare Tasmanian tiger. Shot in the Tarkine Wildernessand the Freycinet Peninsula, the film captures Tasmania’s untamed beauty and lush landscapes. As you watch this intense thriller, you’ll feel the lure of the wild, drawing you closer to Tasmania’s natural wonders.

2. Lion (2016): Based on a true story, “Lion” follows Saroo Brierley’s incredible journey from being separated from his family in India to his adoption by an Australian couple. Some scenes in the movie were filmed in the captivating city of Hobart, including the picturesque waterfront and the grand Parliament House. “Lion” touches the heart with its poignant narrative and showcases Tasmania’s vibrant urban charm.

3. The Light Between Oceans (2016): Set against the mesmerizing backdrop of Tasmania’s Stanley, a town on the northwest coast, this romantic drama unfolds the tale of a lighthouse keeper and his wife who discover a baby on their doorstep. With its rugged coastline and scenic vistas, Stanley provides the perfect setting for this emotionally charged story of love and loss.

4. The Nightingale (2018): This powerful historical drama takes you on a journey through Tasmania’s dark past, following a young Irish convict woman’s quest to seek vengeance against a British officer. Filmed in various locations, such as the Tasman Peninsulaand the Central Highlands, “The Nightingale” sheds light on Tasmania’s convict history and the resilience of its people.

5. Rosehaven (2016-2021): Delving into the lighter side of Tasmania, “Rosehaven” is a heartwarming comedy-drama that revolves around two siblings running a bed and breakfast in the fictional town of Rosehaven. Filmed in and around Hobart, the show provides a glimpse into the charming Tasmanian countryside and its welcoming communities.

6. Bays of Fire: Is a TV show that showcases Tasmania’s spectacular west coast. As the series unfolds, viewers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of this iconic location.

7. Deadloch: Another highly anticipated TV show, “Deadloch,” is set to explore Tasmania’s mysterious and eerie side. The series will take viewers on a thrilling journey through haunted landscapes and chilling tales, capturing the essence of Tasmania’s darker folklore.

Apart from these notable productions, Tasmania has played host to several other films and TV shows that showcase the island’s versatility and cinematic appeal:

• Dying Breed (2008): An action-thriller that explores Tasmania’s wilderness, including the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, as a man searches for escaped convicts.
• Long Weekend (1978): A horror film that takes audiences on a camping trip in Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula and the Tasman Peninsula, where a mysterious figure stalks a couple.
• Napoleon (1995): A historical drama that captures the early life of Napoleon Bonaparte, filmed in various locations, including the Cataract Gorge and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.
• Oscar and Lucinda (1997): This romantic drama highlights the love story of two individuals transporting a glasshouse across Tasmania, filmed in places like the Huon Valley and the Central Highlands.

As you explore these films and TV shows, you’ll immerse yourself in Tasmania’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Each production showcases a different facet of this incredible island, from the pristine wilderness to the charming towns. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or nature lover, Tasmania has something to offer on and off the screen. So, sit back, grab some popcorn, and let the magic of cinema transport you to the captivating world of Tasmania.