Crocodile Dundee

Crocodile Dundee: A Tale of the Outback and Beyond

Imagine a film that not only captivates audiences with its unique blend of adventure, humor, and cultural insight but also becomes an unexpected global sensation. That’s exactly what Crocodile Dundee did in 1986. This Australian-American action comedy is more than just a movie; it’s a phenomenon that has stood the test of time.

The Inspiration Behind the Screen

Wasn’t there always a need for a modern-day folk hero? In Australia, where legends like Ned Kelly are often seen as less-than-legendary, Crocodile Dundee came along to fill that void. Mick Dundee, played by the charismatic Paul Hogan, is not just any bushman; he’s a character who embodies the rugged spirit of the Australian Outback.

A Budget and a Big Idea

The film was made on a modest budget of $10 million, but it had big ambitions. Wasn’t it daring to think that such a small investment could yield such massive returns? The idea for the movie came to Paul Hogan while he was in New York City, inspired by the notion of a bushman from the Northern Territory arriving in an unfamiliar urban landscape.

The Making of a Legend

Crocodile Dundee began its journey on July 13, 1985. Filming took place in various locations including McKinlay, Kakadu National Park, Gunlom Falls, and New York City. The crocodile attack scene was filmed in Girraween Lagoon, adding a thrilling element to the story.

The Crocodile: Burt

One of the most memorable aspects of Crocodile Dundee is its star, Burt, the saltwater crocodile. This reptile lived for over 90 years and passed away in 2024, leaving behind a legacy that’s still celebrated today.

The Box Office Phenomenon

Could anyone have predicted the success of Crocodile Dundee? The film opened with A$2,047,026 in its first week in Australia and grossed a staggering A$47,707,045. In the United States, it debuted at number 1, grossing US$8 million in its opening weekend and remained there for nine weeks.

International Impact

Crocodile Dundee remains the single most-viewed Christmas Day film or programme in the UK when it debuted on BBC One. It grossed US$174,803,506 at the U.S. box office and sold over 46 million tickets in North America. The film’s success was a surprise even to its creators.

Critical Reception

The critical response to Crocodile Dundee was mixed but generally positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, it has an 89% approval rating with an average score of 6.8/10. Metacritic gives it a score of 62 out of 100 based on reviews from 13 critics.

Notable Reviews

– Roger Ebert gave the film 2 stars, citing lack of chemistry between leads.
– Nina Darnton thought Paul Hogan was ‘delightful’ and praised Kozlowski’s performance.
– Variety stated director Peter Faiman had pacing issues and a script with flat spots.
– Dave Kehr gave the film 3 stars, praising its effective crowd-pleasing appeal.
– Paul Attanasio said the characters were nullities with no real conflict.
– Michael Wilmington described it as an expert crowd-pleaser with a sure touch.
– Monthly Film Bulletin called it ‘dull and lumbering’.
– Robert Hughes called Crocodile Dundee a ‘work of social realism’ that gave Americans a ”Wild West’ fantasy’ about Australia, but David Droga said it’s an effective advertisement for the country.

Sequels and Beyond

The success of Crocodile Dundee led to two sequels: one in 1988 and another in 2001. There was even a Super Bowl commercial, but no further information on a second sequel titled ‘Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles.’

A Lasting Legacy

Is it possible that Crocodile Dundee has left an indelible mark on popular culture? The film’s enduring popularity speaks to its ability to capture the essence of Australia and provide a unique perspective for international audiences. It remains a beloved classic, a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of cinema.

From its humble beginnings in the Australian Outback to becoming a global sensation, Crocodile Dundee has proven that sometimes, the most unexpected stories can resonate with audiences worldwide. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain, making it a true icon of cinema.