Mabo

In 1992, terra nullius was abolished in Australia, which can be accredited to the campaign of Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo. In the feature film, Mabo, both Koiki’s positive and negative qualities are revealed throughout his emotional and political journey for Indigenous land rights. While not always recognised, Koiki possesses admirable character that is displayed in his family life, pursuit for justice, prior achievements and in court, which is inspired by his heroes.

Koiki does not always act as an ideal father figure or husband, but this is at the cost of being a hero for Indigenous Australians. When Koiki comes home with news of his idea to “tak[e] the government to court,” enthusiasm and amazement is evident on his family’s face, demonstrating their pride in his passion and determination. When Koiki appears on television, the same pride appears through the exclamations of his family: “It’s Dad!” However, balancing family life and the fight for Indigenous rights is not “an easy path” for Koiki. His wife, Bonita, expresses frustration at her husband for lacking to consistently provide financially for the family during the court case. Koiki’s “road” of activism directly affects his family relationships negatively when he abuses Bonita to receive “a bit of respect,” after being verbally and

Koiki’s bravery is illustrated through his endeavours and because of this, many around him view him as a