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This chapter traces the history of Australian film production in order to examine how George Miller came to make his first film and how a resurgent Australian film industry helped Mad Max (1979) into being. Australian film production was in serious trouble after the Second World War. Even earlier, like other countries after the First World War, it had had to contend with the raging popularity of American movies. From the late 1960s, where film output was virtually zero, to around 20 films a year in the late 1970s, the Australian New Wave was no mad gold rush, but did enough to bear fruit. It became clear that Australian filmmakers would adapt well enough in America, where it was relatively easier to get a movie made. Where does Mad Max fit into the landscape of the Australian New Wave of the 1970s? Does it belong at all? Historically, it has been lumped in with what became known as Ozploitation, the second-tier genre works which emerged in the decade. At the time of Mad Max's release in April of 1979, Australia's national cinema and industry was well into its glorious renaissance.

This chapter discusses the development of George Miller's Mad Max (1979). The first iteration of Mad Max did not involve a cops-and-robbers setup; nor the bleak dystopian future setting or car chases. A vital aspect n the construction of the film's dystopian vision was Miller's medical background and years working as a doctor, as well as his exposure to road accidents growing up, which were frequent enough to leave a lasting mark. Another specific influence on the film was the 1973 oil crisis. The pervading mood of Mad Max is Australia decaying, going wrong, heading towards calamity, losing its way fast. The chapter then details the casting of Mel Gibson for the role of Max Rockatansky, as well as the shooting process of Mad Max.