NOT to be outdone by the massive “Ancient Greeks: Athletes, Warriors and Heroes from the British Museum” coming to the National Museum in December, the National Film and Sound Archive is hosting the world premiere of its most ambitious exhibition to date, “Australians & Hollywood: A Tale of Craft, Talent and Ambition”.

Exclusive to Canberra and two years in the making, this is the NFSA’s first original show in two decades, and celebrates Australia’s contemporary cinematic, acting and filmmaking success.

This blockbuster exhibition features never-before publicly seen objects, costumes, original documents and footage from the NFSA collection, as well as exclusive loans from the private collections of some of Australia’s most celebrated actors, cinematographers and filmmakers.

From directors Baz Luhrmann and Rachel Perkins to Nicole Kidman and Margot Robbie, “Australians & Hollywood” will turn the spotlight on to household names, award‐winning filmmakers, the Aussie craftsmen and women who have a huge impact on the global screen industry.

The NFSA’s chief engagement officer, Matt Ravier says, “This exhibition is both a celebration and provocation to rethink Australian cinema today, at home, in Hollywood and beyond. It is time for Australians to be invigorated and inspired by our cinematic success stories”.

The exhibit will also involve a digital layer, giving visitors an interactive experience as they journey through the exhibition with their phones.

Acting CEO at the archive, Nancy Eyers says, “With Canberra poised to become the nation’s next movie hub, we hope as many people as possible are able to visit the capital and the NFSA, and celebrate the incredible successes of contemporary Australian filmmakers, cinematographers and actors”.

Former Canberran and “Black Widow” director, Cate Shortland says, “It is humbling to have my work included. It makes me feel I have lived a life. Collaborated with wonderful people. Been assisted by many. I hope my work inspires others to be brave and persist”.

“Australians & Hollywood: A Tale of Craft, Talent and Ambition”, National Film and Sound Archive, December 4-April 25. More information here.