The House-Opening
The House-Opening
1980, English. Directed by Judith MacDougall.
When Geraldine Kawanka’s husband died, she and her children left their house at Aurukun on Cape York Peninsula. In earlier times a bark house would have been burnt, but today a ‘house-opening’ ceremony — creatively mingling Aboriginal, Torres Strait and European elements — has evolved to deal with death in the midst of new living patterns. Although sometimes suggesting a party, its underlying purpose is serious. This film records the opening of the house and Geraldine’s feelings about it in her informative and personal commentary.
- Runtime
- 0h 42m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- Check local
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Where to watch The House-Opening
The House-Opening isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can watch it free online.
Free
KanopyAvailability in India as of 10 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
Details
- Released
- 1 January 1980
- Country
- Australia
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News & fan talk
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The House-Opening: quick answers
Is The House-Opening worth watching?
The House-Opening doesn’t have enough ratings for a verdict yet.
How long is The House-Opening?
The House-Opening runs 42 minutes (0h 42m).
Does The House-Opening have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for The House-Opening. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
The House-Opening parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
No age rating is listed for The House-Opening yet.
Which OTT platform is The House-Opening on?
The House-Opening isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can watch it free online. (Checked 10 November 2026.)
What movies are like The House-Opening?
If you liked The House-Opening, try Anna Nicole Smith: You Don't Know Me, Come See Me in the Good Light, Ex Libris: The New York Public Library.
Who directed The House-Opening?
The House-Opening (1980) was directed by Judith MacDougall.