For the Term of His Natural Life (1908 film)

For the Term of His Natural Life (1908) is a silent Australian film adaptation of Marcus Clarke's novel of the same name. Directed by Gaston Mervale and produced by Charles Cozens Spencer, it is one of the earliest feature-length films made in Australia. The film tells the story of Rufus Dawes, a man wrongly convicted of murder and transported to a penal colony in Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania). The narrative focuses on his struggles against the brutal conditions and unjust system, as well as his resilience and eventual redemption. The film's significance lies in its early attempt to adapt a major Australian literary work to the screen and its portrayal of a significant aspect of Australian history – the convict era. Despite its historical importance, little of the film survives today, and its complete version is considered lost. It represents a pioneering effort in Australian cinema, showcasing the potential for adapting local stories for a wider audience.