The Hero 1979
Step behind the scenes of Australian television in the late 1970s with The Hero (1979), a crisp twenty-minute drama from director Martin Williams.
Director: Martin Williams
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Hero (1979) about?
The short drama follows a TV actor as he prepares to play a heroic character in a children's program, revealing the process and teamwork behind bringing a weekly show to life.
Who directed The Hero?
The Hero was directed by Martin Williams, an Australian filmmaker known for his work in television drama during the 1970s.
Who stars in The Hero?
The film features Mel Gibson in a supporting role, alongside Vivienne Garrett, Michael Aitkens, Arthur Dignam, and Barry Lovett.
Is The Hero (1979) worth watching?
While not a blockbuster, The Hero offers a charming slice-of-life look at Australian children's television in the late '70s. Its concise runtime and light sci-fi touches make it a curious watch for fans of vintage TV and early Mel Gibson.
How long is The Hero?
The runtime of The Hero is 20 minutes.
About The Hero (1979) — Behind the Scenes of a Classic Australian TV Movie
Step behind the scenes of Australian television in the late 1970s with The Hero (1979), a crisp twenty-minute drama from director Martin Williams. This educational TV movie, blending drama with gentle science-fiction undertones, follows a fictional actor as he prepares for his role in a weekly children's show. The behind-the-camera glimpse reveals the craft and camaraderie of small-screen storytelling, framed in the warm yet reflective aesthetic of ABC's classic era.
Martin Williams crafts a quietly observant portrait, supported by a standout cast led by Mel Gibson in one of his early screen roles. The production balances light-hearted curiosity with subtle social commentary, capturing a moment when Australian children's television was evolving in tone and ambition. Though brief, the film offers a nostalgic window into the collaborative magic of making TV—and reminds us of the enduring allure of heroic characters, even when they're made of cardboard and good intentions.