Kokoda Front Line! facts for kids

Kokoda Front Line! was a special, longer version of an Australian newsreel from 1942. It was like a short documentary film. This movie was made during World War II to show people in Australia what was happening on the front lines. It was produced by the Australian News & Information Bureau and Cinesound Productions Limited.

This film was very important because it was one of four movies that won an Academy Award (an Oscar) for Best Documentary in 1942. It was the first Australian movie ever to win an Oscar! It was created by a brave Australian war photographer named Damien Parer and directed by Ken G. Hall.

The Story of Kokoda Front Line!

Kokoda Front Line! takes viewers right into the middle of the fighting during World War II. It shows Australian soldiers battling against Japanese forces in a very difficult place called the Kokoda Track. This track is in Papua New Guinea, a country north of Australia. The film was made to show Australians the harsh realities of war.

The movie is only about nine minutes long. But in that short time, it powerfully shows the tough conditions the soldiers faced. It highlights their bravery and the challenges of fighting in a dense jungle environment.

What Was the Kokoda Track Campaign?

The Kokoda Track campaign was a series of battles during World War II. It happened in 1942, the same year the film was released. Australian soldiers fought against Japanese forces along a very narrow and rugged path. This path, known as the Kokoda Track, goes through mountains and thick jungle.

The conditions were extremely difficult. Soldiers faced heavy rain, mud, diseases, and steep terrain. They also had to deal with a determined enemy. The campaign was a vital part of defending Australia from invasion. It showed the incredible endurance and courage of the Australian soldiers.

Who Made This Film?

The main person behind Kokoda Front Line! was Damien Parer. He was an Australian war photographer and cameraman. Parer was known for his bravery and skill in capturing real moments of war. He would often be right there with the soldiers, filming the action as it happened.

Ken G. Hall directed the film. He was a famous Australian film director. Hall helped to put Parer's amazing footage together into a powerful story. Their teamwork brought the war experience directly to people back home.

Why Was This Film Important?

Kokoda Front Line! was important for several reasons. It helped people in Australia understand the sacrifices being made by their soldiers. It also boosted morale and support for the war effort.

Showing the Reality of War

Before this film, many people at home didn't fully grasp what war was like. Kokoda Front Line! showed the true grit and danger faced by soldiers. It showed them fighting, resting, and dealing with injuries. This raw footage helped people connect with the soldiers' experiences. It made the war feel more real and immediate.

Winning an Oscar

The film's Academy Award win was a huge achievement for Australia. It was the first time an Australian film had received such a high international honor. This award recognized the film's quality and its powerful message. It also brought global attention to the efforts of Australian soldiers in World War II.

The film's success showed that Australian filmmakers could create world-class documentaries. It paved the way for future Australian films to gain international recognition.