Let's delve into a fascinating story that's more than meets the eye. Beyond the face on the $100 note, there's an incredible journey waiting to be told on the big screen.
Unveiling a Military Legend
An ambitious project, titled “The General”, aims to bring the life of General Sir John Monash, one of Australia's greatest military leaders, to life. This isn't just a biopic; it's a journey through the rise of a citizen-soldier and engineer to the commander of the Australian Corps during World War I.
A Passionate Endeavor
The driving force behind this project is Wayne Higgins, a retired army officer, along with screenwriter Marc Furmie. Their vision is bold: to create an international war epic, not just a local period piece. Furmie, based in Los Angeles, believes the script is now ready to attract major directors and financiers.
Hollywood Dreams
The team's dream director is none other than Steven Spielberg, with Peter Jackson and Sam Mendes also mentioned as potential filmmakers. While there's no official attachment yet, the team imagines Australian actor Ben Mendelsohn in the lead role.
The Appeal of Monash
What makes Monash's story so captivating? It's not just his success as a commander but his journey as an underdog. Furmie relates to Monash's experience of being underestimated by his superiors, especially in the British military. Yet, it only takes a few advocates to believe in you and change the course of history.
A Historical Figure
Monash, born in Melbourne in 1865, was a civil engineer before becoming a celebrated military commander. His appointment as commander of the Australian Corps in 1918 was a significant milestone, as he was the first Australian to hold such a position. The Battle of Hamel, where Monash's detailed planning and use of various military assets led to a famous victory, further solidified his place in history.
A Unique Perspective
Furmie's screenplay presents Monash as a brilliant, rebellious, and human figure, not a statue from history. He values Monash's humanity and his ability to swim against the tide, facing both institutional barriers and his ethnic background as a Jewish outsider.
The Emotional Cost
What sets “The General” apart is its focus on the emotional toll of command. No previous depiction of Monash has explored this aspect, and it's a unique angle that Furmie believes will make the film stand out.
A Global Story
Associate Professor Karen Pearlman suggests that Australian stories can travel internationally when framed beyond national boundaries. Monash's story, with its dramatic and cultural weight, has the potential to resonate with a global audience.
The Right Time
With Australian stars and stories dominating the zeitgeist, now seems like the perfect moment to bring Monash's story to the big screen. As Furmie puts it, “We could have very easily lost the First World War if it weren't for men like Monash”.
Conclusion
“The General” is more than just a film; it's a passionate project driven by a team that believes in the power of Monash's story. With a potential budget of over $100 million, this epic could be a game-changer, showcasing Australia's rich history and the impact of its military leaders on the world stage.
