Aussiewood: Australia’s leading actors and directors tell how they conquered Hollywood

Hollywood is in the throes of a white-hot love affair with Australian actors and filmmakers. This island nation, with a population of 20 million, has produced some of the biggest names in Hollywood and the trend shows no signs of letting up.

In Aussiewood, top Australian show-biz journalists Michaela Boland and Michael Bodey take us behind the scenes to meet the stars. Nicole, Heath, Hugh and many others tell us about their backgrounds, their dreams and their fears. They describe the glamour and the business of Hollywood, how they’ve dealt with sudden fame and how they shot - or climbed - to the top. Some did it tough, some relatively easy; some pursued stardom with voracious ambition, for others Hollywood came knocking .

But what led to Hollywood’s fascination with Australia? Is it about talent? Does it come down to economics? Or is Australia simply flavour of the month? Aussiewood goes beyond the personal stories to explore why so many have shot to stardom so quickly. It uncovers a wealth and diversity of talent, on both sides of the camera.