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About Her Name Is Nanny Nellie
Powerful and poignant, Her Name is Nanny Nellie offers us the rare privilege of bearing witness to a family reclaiming their history. In 1925, the Australian Museum commissioned three statues of ‘full blood ’Aboriginal people: a child, a man and a woman, exhibited as nameless objects to be studied as examples of a ‘dying race.’ The woman was Nellie Walker, Irene Walker’s great grandmother and director Daniel King’s great, great grandmother. Now Irene is on a journey to retrace Nellie’s life and to reconnect the other families to their ancestors’ statues and re-display them, this time with their names, identities and dignity. This is far more than a symbolic quest, but an opportunity to change how we remember and represent, and to give the nameless names.
- Year
- 2023
- Genres
- History, Documentary
- Runtime
- 78mins
- Director
- Daniel King
- Top cast
- Irene Ridgeway
Her Name Is Nanny Nellie trailer
Play video: Her Name Is Nanny Nellie trailer
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is a poignant exploration of identity and history, directed by Daniel King. The film embarks on a heartfelt journey as Irene Walker seeks to reconnect with her great grandmother, Nellie, whose life was reduced to a mere exhibit in a museum. The narrative is anchored in a powerful historical context, shedding light on the experiences of Aboriginal people in Australia. King's direction is both sensitive and compelling, allowing the emotional weight of the story to resonate deeply with the audience. The performances, particularly from the lead, are heartfelt and authentic, capturing the essence of a family grappling with their past. The cinematography is striking, juxtaposing the stark realities of history with the vibrant reclamation of identity. While the pacing may feel deliberate at times, it ultimately serves to deepen the viewer's connection to the characters and their journey. Overall, Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is a significant film that challenges viewers to reflect on the importance of names and identities, making it a must-watch for those interested in cultural narratives.
Editor Team
★★★★★5/5
Wow, just wow! Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is a film that truly touches the heart and stirs the soul. From the moment we meet Irene Walker, you can feel her determination and passion as she dives into her family's history. This isn't just a movie; it's an emotional ride that makes you think about the past and how we remember those who came before us. The way Daniel King directs the film is nothing short of brilliant. He captures the essence of Nellie's story with such grace and respect. The scenes are beautifully shot, filled with raw emotion and rich storytelling. The performances are top-notch, especially the lead, who brings Irene's struggle to life in a way that feels so real. It’s a film that’s both heart-wrenching and uplifting, reminding us of the importance of honouring our ancestors. If you're looking for something that will inspire and make you reflect on identity and dignity, Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is a must-see. It's a powerful testament to the strength of family and history, and I can't recommend it enough!
How viewers describe this
- poignant
- powerful
- emotional
- reflective
- inspiring
- significant
- touching
- heartwarming
- educational
- authentic
- gripping
- historical
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 36 | ||
| 02 | 55 | ||
| 03 | 131 | ||
| 04 | 241 | ||
| 05 | 323 | ||
| 06 | 503 | ||
| 07 | 618 | ||
| 08 | 647 |
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Got a question about Her Name Is Nanny Nellie?
Is Her Name Is Nanny Nellie worth watching?
Yes, Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is a compelling film that tackles important themes of identity, history, and representation. It offers a poignant journey of reclaiming the past and highlights the significance of acknowledging ancestral narratives, making it a worthwhile watch.
What is Her Name Is Nanny Nellie really about?
Her Name Is Nanny Nellie follows Irene Walker as she embarks on a quest to uncover the life of her great grandmother, Nellie Walker, who was one of three Aboriginal individuals turned into statues by the Australian Museum in 1925. The film explores themes of identity, dignity, and the importance of giving names to those who were historically treated as mere objects.
Is it based on a true story?
Yes, Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is based on true events surrounding the life of Nellie Walker, an Aboriginal woman who was objectified as part of a museum exhibit. The film reflects the real emotional and cultural journey of her descendants as they seek to reclaim their heritage.
Where can I watch Her Name Is Nanny Nellie in Australia?
Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is available for streaming on various platforms in Australia. Check local streaming services or digital rental options to find where it's currently being showcased.
Is it suitable for children?
Her Name Is Nanny Nellie contains themes that may be more suitable for older children and adults. The film addresses complex historical issues, making it an educational experience, but parental guidance is advised for younger viewers.
What happens at the end of Her Name Is Nanny Nellie?
At the end of Her Name Is Nanny Nellie, Irene Walker successfully reconnects with her family's history and the identities of those represented in the statues. This resolution not only brings closure to her personal journey but also reflects a broader movement towards recognising and honouring Aboriginal heritage.
Is it scary?
No, Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is not a horror film and does not contain elements designed to frighten. Instead, it focuses on emotional and historical themes, making it a reflective experience rather than a scary one.
Is there a sequel to Her Name Is Nanny Nellie?
As of now, there is no announced sequel to Her Name Is Nanny Nellie. The film stands alone as a powerful narrative about identity and heritage, but future projects may explore similar themes.
What films are similar to Her Name Is Nanny Nellie?
Films that explore themes of identity and cultural heritage, such as Rabbit-Proof Fence and The Sapphires, may resonate with viewers of Her Name Is Nanny Nellie. These films also highlight the importance of reclaiming personal and collective histories.

