Travelling North (1987)
A sharp, tender Australian dramedy about love, aging, and the limits we refuse to accept — brought to life by a magnificent Leo McKern.
Travelling North - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1987
- Directed by: Carl Schultz
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Comedy
- Runtime: 1h 36m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 19, 1987 (United States), July 23, 1987 (Australia - PG)
- Production Companies: View Films, The Australian Film Commission, Queensland Film Corporation
- Production Countries: Australia
Travelling North - Plot
Travelling North tells the story of Frank, a crotchety old man with an unending zest and passion for life and Frances his much younger companion travelling to Queensland to enjoy their retirement and each other. Unfortunately the North cannot calm Frank's complex personality and Frances watches helplessly as Frank struggles to understand his own emotional and physical limitations.
Travelling North - Trailer
See the official trailer and get a feel for this beloved Australian classic:
Where to Watch Travelling North
Looking for where to watch Travelling North?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Travelling North - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Carl Schultz
Main Cast
- Leo McKern
- Julia Blake
- Graham Kennedy
- Henri Szeps
- Michele Fawdon
- Diane Craig
- Drew Forsythe
- Roger Oakley
- Andrea Moor
- John Gregg
Writers
- David Williamson
Producers
- Ben Gannon
Travelling North - FAQs
What is Travelling North about?
Travelling North follows Frank, a cantankerous but life-loving retiree, and his younger companion Frances as they relocate to Queensland to enjoy their twilight years together. The film tenderly explores how Frank's stubborn personality and declining health test both his self-understanding and their relationship.
Does Travelling North have a happy ending?
The ending is bittersweet rather than conventionally happy. Frank's health deteriorates significantly, and the film doesn't shy away from the emotional weight of aging and loss. Yet there's warmth and dignity in how Frances stands by him — making it a deeply moving conclusion rather than a bleak one.
Where can you watch Travelling North online?
You can check current streaming availability for Travelling North on JustWatch, which tracks all rental, purchase, and subscription options in your region. Availability can change, so it's the best place to find up-to-date viewing options.
Who are the lead actors in Travelling North?
Leo McKern and Julia Blake lead the film as Frank and Frances. McKern, best known internationally for Rumpole of the Bailey, delivers a commanding performance, while Blake brings quiet emotional depth to Frances. Graham Kennedy and Henri Szeps round out the strong supporting cast.
Is Travelling North based on a true story?
Travelling North is not based on a specific true story, but it originates from a deeply personal place. Playwright David Williamson drew on real emotional truths about aging, relationships, and late-life reinvention when writing the original stage play, which was later adapted into this 1987 film.
Who wrote and directed Travelling North?
The film was directed by Carl Schultz and written by David Williamson, one of Australia's most celebrated playwrights. Williamson adapted the screenplay from his own acclaimed stage play of the same name, preserving much of its sharp wit and emotional honesty in the transition to screen.
How was Travelling North received by critics?
Critics praised Travelling North warmly, particularly highlighting Leo McKern's towering central performance and the film's honest, unsentimental approach to aging and love. It was celebrated as a fine example of Australian cinema — intelligent, character-driven, and emotionally resonant without resorting to melodrama.
What genre is Travelling North?
Travelling North blends drama and comedy in a way that feels entirely natural. It's a character study at heart — warm and often funny, but never afraid to sit with grief, frustration, and the complexities of late-life love. Think of it as a dramedy with real emotional heft.
More About Travelling North
Explore further details about Travelling North on these trusted resources.