The Last Bastion

“1941 – A nation at war, Australia faces Japanese Invasion. This is the battle behind the scenes we didn't get to see.”

The year is 1941 – As the dark cloud of World War II hovers perilously over the southern hemisphere the people of Australia brace themselves for an uncertain future when Japanese forces get ready to invade. The Last Bastion goes behind closed doors and into the minds of the big decision makers – world dignitaries Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Australia's John Curtin, and General Douglas MacArthur. The boundaries are set - transports carrying thousands of men, naval fleets and army divisions are strategically positioned – pawns on over-sized world maps, as a high-stakes game of chess develops between the allies and against the enemy. Detailing the heated political battles waged by Prime Minister John Curtin during the omnipresent threat of invasion, The Last Bastion highlights key battles and locations, incorporating real archival footage of sea, air and frontline combat to provide historical authenticity and military verisimilitude.

Director

Chris Thomson

Screenplay

David Williamson

Screenplay

Denis Whitburn

Status

Ended

First air date

05/11/1984

Original language

English