Bastard Boys

Bastard Boys is the story of the fight that stopped the nation – the 1998 battle for Australia's waterfront. More than just a dispute over reform, it became a campaign for the hearts and minds of all Australians. Controversial, all-consuming and combative, it forced people to pick a side and fight for their beliefs.

Political thriller, war film, buddy movie, love story and courtroom drama all rolled into one, this is the story of the people behind one of the most significant events in Australia's recent past. Bastard Boys has been written with the cooperation and participation of all parties to the dispute.

It is the first time participants such as former Patrick CEO Chris Corrigan and ACTU Secretary Greg Combet have agreed to tell their personal stories. The story begins with a 'deep throat' phone call to John Coombs (Colin Friels), the head of the Maritime Union of Australia.

The caller warns of a plan to replace the unionized workforce on docks throughout the country. The subsequent stand off between the tough and canny head of Patrick Stevedores, Chris Corrigan (Geoff Morrell), and the wharfies, lawyers and unionists who oppose him, will divide public opinion around the country.