It was a time when low-budget films gained popularity, providing a cinematic escape with a dash of schlock. Simultaneously, Australian cinema was riding the wave of international interest, thanks to the likes of ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’ and ‘Walkabout.’ The confluence of these trends gave birth to what came to be known as ‘Ozploitation’ films, a phrase coined in the 2008 documentary ‘Not Quite Hollywood: The Wild, Untold Story of Ozploitation!’. Distinguished by sturdy accents, eccentric staples, and an unusual gusto for violent biker gangs, these movies captured the Australian essence in reels of unpredictable panache.

10. ‘Fair Game’ (1986) directed by Mario Andreacchio

A disturbing saga set in the outback, ‘Fair Game’ shockingly mingles revenge and savagery while enhancing the viewing experience with outrageous scenes. Jessica (Cassandra Delaney), who runs a wildlife sanctuary, becomes the target of three psychopathic kangaroo hunters. Inflamed, she decides to strike back and bring their callous exploring adventure to a grinding halt. In spite of its limitations, ‘Fair Game’ gives the thrills of an unforgettable ’80s saga dipped in the theme of retaliation and offers an enjoyable ride. Notably, this small-budget thrill-chaser influenced Quentin Tarantino’s tribute to exploitation flicks, ‘Death Proof.’

9. ‘Alvin Purple’ (1973) directed by Tim Burstall

The narrative of exploitation cinema would be incomplete without the discussion of the sex comedies that dominated the ’70s and ’80s. In this context, Australia’s ‘Alvin Purple’ stands out as a watermark. It charts the life of a suburban waterbed salesman irresistibly attractive to women. Made on a shoestring budget, ‘Alvin Purple’ became a blockbuster of Australian cinema and a prime example of the successful sex comedy genre while sparking two sequels.

8. ‘Stone’ (1974) directed by Sandy Harbutt

‘Stone’ delves into the underworld of outlaw biker gangs, a theme that was a defining element of Australian exploitation films in the ’70s and ’80s. However, upturning the prevalent depiction of bikers as villains, ‘Stone’ instead presents them as victims of a serial killer.

7. ‘The Return of Captain Invincible’ (1983) directed by Phillippe Mora

In all its ludicrous bravado, ‘The Return of Captain Invincible’ stands alone as a superhero musical comedy. The narrative revolves around Captain Invincible (Alan Arkin), an American superhero who is forced into exile due to political persecution. It’s absurd to the point of amusement but offers a unique and refreshing touch to the superhero genre.

6. ‘The Man from Hong Kong’ (1975) directed by Brian Trenchard-Smith

‘The Man from Hong Kong’ is an exciting blend of Australian charm and martial arts madness. This high-energy action saga is a co-production between China and Australia that pits a Hong Kong inspector against a towering criminal conglomerate in Australia.

5. ‘Next of Kin’ (1982) directed by Tony Williams

Step into the unnerving world of horror mystery with ‘Next of Kin,’ an ’80s cult classic revered for its atmospheric dread, deliberate pacing, and critical acclaim. When Linda Stevens (Jacki Kerin) inherits a remote estate after the death of her mother, the strange incidents at the property plunge her into an ominous darkness.

4. ‘Long Weekend’ (1978) directed by Colin Eggleston

‘Long Weekend’ is an unsettling narrative about the dire consequences of defying nature. A couple upon the brink of divorce unwittingly invites nature’s wrath when they go for a camping trip. From the stunning landscapes to the terrifying local fauna, ‘Long Weekend’ encapsulates Australia’s distinctive identity.

3. ‘Road Games’ (1981) directed by Richard Franklin

‘Road Games’ is a captivating road thriller that utilises Australian outback as the backdrop for a high-speed chase involving a serial killer. Propelled by its layered story of mystery and suspense, ‘Road Games’ manages to present a well-rounded plot, effective thrills, and natural, comedic performances that elevate this B-movie to a memorable level.

2. ‘Mad Max’ (1979) & ‘Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior’ (1981) directed by George Miller

Coming in at runner-up is the globally recognized ‘Mad Max’ series that reshaped action movies. Set in a dystopian near-future, the original ‘Mad Max’ and its sequel, ‘Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior,’ deliver high-octane action sequences that strike a chord with every film enthusiast.

1. ‘Wake in Fright’ (1971) directed by Ted Kotcheff

Topping the list is the decades-old gem, ‘Wake in Fright’, a riveting cinema that dives deep into a nightmarish exploration of rustic Australian culture. It portrays the journey of a schoolteacher unable to escape the inexorably oppressive clasp of life in an outback mining town. Lauded by cinephiles worldwide and recognised as a Cannes Classic by Martin Scorsese, ‘Wake in Fright’ stands unchallenged as the crowning jewel of Ozploitation films.