Sweet Country

In 1929 Australia, Harry March, a rancher haunted by PTSD, approaches Preacher Fred Smith for help in constructing a track yard for his cattle. Despite Fred's reluctance, Harry convinces him that assisting embodies true Christian values, urging Fred to reconsider his plans.

Fred consults his Aboriginal partner, Sam Kelly, who readily agrees to help with the track yard construction. This collaboration sets the stage for upcoming tensions, highlighting the complexities of community and friendship in the face of adversity.

As construction begins, Harry's severe alcoholism and temper become apparent. During a drunken episode, he violently assaults Sam's wife, Lizzie, instilling fear and urgency in Sam's family to seek safety from Harry's wrath.

In fear for their lives, Sam and his family approach Fred, asking him to take their niece, Lucy, to town for safety. This plea emphasizes the dire situation and the lengths they must go to protect their loved ones from Harry's unpredictable violence.

Harry befriends rancher Mick Kennedy and enlists his help with Aboriginal farmhands. This partnership brings to light the racial tensions of the era as Mick recalls past confrontations with Sam, further igniting Harry's distrust and hostility toward Sam.

In a fit of rage, Harry mistakenly accuses young farmhand Philomac of theft and chains him to a boulder as punishment. This act of cruelty highlights Harry's uncontrolled rage and the precariousness of life on the ranch.

Harry tracks down Philomac to Fred's ranch, leading to a tense confrontation. Accusing Sam of harboring a 'prisoner' triggers a violent struggle, resulting in Sam shooting Harry in self-defense amidst the chaos.

With Harry dead, Sam and Lizzie are forced to flee again, while Philomac seizes the opportunity to steal Harry's valuables. The violence sets off a chain reaction that puts everyone in peril, showcasing the brutal reality of their world.

Sergeant Fletcher organizes a posse, including Mick and Archie, to hunt down Sam after learning of Harry's death. The determination of the posse adds tension and raises the stakes for Sam and Lizzie, who are already struggling to survive.

As Sam and Lizzie escape deeper into the outback, Lizzie's health deteriorates due to the trauma she endured. The emotional toll of their ordeal complicates their escape plans, creating additional stress on their fragile relationship.

While on the run, Lizzie discovers she is pregnant with Harry’s child, a revelation that adds layers to their struggle. This pregnancy complicates their escape and reveals the deep emotional scars left by their traumatic experiences.

During the chase, Sam shows unexpected mercy towards Fletcher by offering him water when he collapses in the desert. This act of kindness highlights Sam’s moral complexity, even as he navigates a life-threatening situation.

In a desperate move, Sam and Lizzie ultimately surrender to Fletcher, hoping to find some form of resolution. Their decision unfolds a series of events leading to a harsh trial that could end Sam’s life, revealing the depths of their vulnerabilities.

During the trial, Sam confesses to killing Harry in self-defense, revealing his inability to have children, eliciting a surprising empathy from Fletcher. Fred stands by Sam's side, emphasizing the community's divided stance on justice.

The unexpected verdict of innocence for Sam incites outrage, especially from Fletcher, who feels humiliated. In the aftermath, a bullet unexpectedly strikes Sam, resulting in his death in Fred's arms, leaving Lizzie and Lucy to grapple with the horror and loss.

In the wake of the tragedy, Philomac discards Harry's watch into the river, symbolizing his desire to break free from his past. Inspired by Sam’s sacrifice, Fred resolves to build a church, signifying hope and the quest for redemption amid ongoing grief.