An outback town with a dark secret is the setting for this Aussie New Wave classic directed by Peter Weir. A beautiful 50th-anniversary restoration presented by the National Film and Sound Archive brings this haunting tale back to life, reminding audiences of its enduring impact on Australian cinema.

After surviving a car accident, Arthur finds himself in the peculiar town of Paris, NSW. Welcomed with open arms by the local community, Arthur’s initial relief soon turns to suspicion as he uncovers the sinister truth lurking beneath the surface. Why do so many car crash victims keep arriving? And what kind of strange influence does the Mayor, portrayed by the legendary John Meillon, hold over his constituents?

With its atmosphere of mounting dread and eye-popping production design, “The Cars That Ate Paris” takes viewers on a journey into Australia’s violent car culture, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Australian cinema. This film marked a stunning feature debut for the great Australian filmmaker Peter Weir, who would go on to captivate audiences with masterpieces like “Picnic at Hanging Rock” (1975) and “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World” (2003).

“The Cars That Ate Paris” premiered at Cannes and the Sydney Film Festival in 1974, garnering attention for its bold storytelling and unique perspective. Its exploration of societal themes and intricate character dynamics continues to resonate with audiences, even fifty years after its initial release.

Peter Weir: Director Extraordinaire

Peter Weir is an Australian BAFTA-awarded filmmaker whose impact on Australian cinema is immeasurable. A six-time Academy Award nominee, Weir’s films like “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” “The Last Wave,” and “Gallipoli” have made renowned contributions to the 1970s Australian New Wave, defining a generation of filmmakers and inspiring future storytellers.

Beyond his contributions to Australian cinema, Weir has achieved international success with a diverse range of features, including “Dead Poets Society,” “The Truman Show,” and “Witness.” His ability to craft compelling narratives and evoke powerful emotions has cemented his legacy as one of the most influential directors of his time, inspiring generations of filmmakers to push the boundaries of storytelling and explore the human experience through the lens of cinema.

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of “The Cars That Ate Paris,” we reflect not only on the enduring impact of this landmark film but also on the incredible work of Peter Weir and his invaluable contributions to the world of cinema.

• Saul Muerte