The Castle

Set in a modest, ramshackle house tucked just beyond Melbourne's busy airport, the Kerrigan family takes pride in every dent and detail that makes their home theirs. When a government inspector condemns the dwelling and reveals plans to seize the land for airport expansion, Darryl Kerrigan refuses to roll over. He and his clan enlist a well meaning but fallible solicitor, Dennis Denuto, and prepare for what they call the fight of their lives. The plan is simple and it's affectionate: defend their space with humor, stubborn common sense, and a love for family that defies bureaucrats. What follows is a comedic, down to earth testament to resilience, community, and the power of standing your ground in Australia today mates.

Directed by Rob Sitch, The Castle was written by Sitch, Cilauro and Gleisner from an original screenplay. Produced by Working Dog, it premiered in 1997 as a modest home grown project and grew into a beloved slice of Australian cinema nationwide for generations.

Over the years The Castle has become a touchstone of Australian pop culture. Its portrayal of an ordinary family defending their space with stubborn humor struck a chord with audiences and writers alike, influencing later comedies and remaining a go to reference for casual conversations about home, belonging, and resilience.

Critics praised its warmth and wit, while audiences connected with its social steadiness. The film digs into themes of home ownership, tolerance of the everyday, and the value of community in the face of bureaucratic pressure, offering a gentle, human take on what a house really means.

Awards: The Castle earned recognition within Australian film circles, receiving nominations at national awards for its screenplay and performances, underscoring the strength of its writing and the film's enduring appeal. Its success also helped spotlight domestic storytelling and the value of collaborative writing.