Samuel Goldwyn’s High Ground gives audiences a new perspective of the settlement of Australia. It explores the themes of identity and culture and the attempts that were made to preserve and progress culture in the face of an overwhelming threat. The film lets us ponder on the question if it’s possible for natives and settlers to co-exist in an area that they are both claiming as their own. Unfortunately, when two cultures clash there are bound to be miscommunications that can lead to dangerous and deadly encounters.

In High Ground, a group of settlers is startled by locals and it leads to the death of the entire camp. The only survivor is Gutjuk, who then is raised by the invading Europeans. Years later a dangerous warrior and his group of indigenous followers are now attacking settlements. Gutjuk is called upon to help them find and take down this man. He befriends an ex-sniper named Travis. But when Gutjuk finds out Travis’ role in the murders of his family, things fall apart.

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High Ground is directed by Stephen Maxwell Johnson and written by Chris Anastassiades. It stars Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Simon Baker, Callan Mulvey, Aaron Pedersen, Ryan Corr, Caren Pistorius, Sean Mununggurr, Witiyana Marika, Esmerelda Marimowa, Maximillian Johnson, and Jack Thompson.

With the release of High Ground this month, LRM Online’s Emmanuel Gomez spoke with Stephen Maxwell Johnson. He talks about growing up in Australia and alongside the featured natives in the film. This includes a wonderful story about one of his casting choices that had a connection with his childhood. Also, he comments on his great choice to highlight the sounds of the Australian land throughout the film. You can check out the full conversation down below!

Samuel Goldwyn’s High Ground is available now on Digital and On Demand.