The Great White Whale

Join us on those first attempts to climb Big Ben, the smoking glacier ringed volcano on Heard Island, Australia’s loneliest, most remote outpost. It’s a tale told with quirky humour by those who were there, backed up with their beautifully shot archival footage. Paul Jarman’s brilliant musical score pays tribute to the utter boldness of the quest, bringing to life this little known moment in Australian history. Deep in the wild Southern Ocean, halfway between Australia and Africa, a snowy volcano, almost 3,000 meters high, rears up from the sea like a Great White Whale. Five times that Great White Whale of a mountain tried to kill the first team that attempted it. Yet back they sailed, through the worst seas in the world to try again, this time with the legendary Bill Tilman as the skipper.

  • John Crick
  • Michael Dillon
  • Michael Dillon
  • Paul Jarman
  • 2024
  • Australia
  • 105 minutes
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About Jean Cocteau Cinema

The Jean Cocteau Cinema is Santa Fe’s eclectic movie house, full bar, and special events venue owned by George RR Martin. Please follow us on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook to learn more about our upcoming plans and events!