The Adventures of Priscilla lives on at the NFSA

Original film components now at the NFSA

Tara Marynowsky

Stephan Elliott at the NFSA, October 2014

The key components of one of Australia’s most celebrated feature films, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert have now been acquired by the NFSA.

In the film's 20th anniversary year (2014), director Stephan Elliot and executive producer Rebel Penfold-Russell sorted through their film collection at the NFSA warehouse based in Mitchell, Canberra.

During their visit, the key film components of Priscilla necessary for its preservation were identified: the 35mm sound negative, 35mm A&B original final cut negative, 35mm interdupe and final mix sound reels.

These film components are crucial for preservation and for any future restoration work that may be required down the track. By acquiring all of these elements the NFSA is able to ensure the best possible preservation outcome for future generations.

It is clear Stephan and Rebel have a great passion for film and its physical form. Having not seen the actual film reels for years they were excited to view the old cans again, with lots of photos taken to mark the occasion.

See an extensive array of collection items relating to The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert in our online collection.