Land of the Morning Star

Land of the Morning Star

  • Overview
  • Cast
  • Crew

Status

Released

Release Date

Jan 1, 2003

Runtime

0h 57m

Genres

Documentary

Original Title

Land of the Morning Star

Production Companies

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

Director

Mark Worth

Description

The western half of the island of New Guinea has been known by many names including Netherlands New Guinea, West Papua, Irian Jaya and Papua. It is an extraordinary place where snow-capped mountains drain into massive rivers and 250 languages are spoken. For centuries, the world has jostled for control of this rugged, isolated region, with its abundant natural resources and strategic position. Through eyewitness accounts and rare archival film, this fascinating documentary paints a picture that is intimate in detail but epic in scope. It is a sweeping saga of colonial ambitions, cold war sellouts and fervent nationalism, which highlights the role of players such as Australia and the UN at crucial points.