Sydney Director Craig Rasmus has release a short documentary entitled Atlantium: The Smallest Country In Australia which explores micro-nation founder and Emperor of Atlantium George II.
The focus of director Craig Rasmus’ film lies in the true story of George, and his journey to become the founder of the second largest micro-nation in the world (wasn’t there a Family Guy episode about this?).
Occupying an area of land twice the size of Vatican City, Atlantium sits on a property called Aurora, in rural NSW, about a four-hour drive South West of Sydney. It has its own government, currency, post office, flag, national anthem and citizenship of over 3,500 citizens. You can even rent out a rooms at Atlantium on Airbnb for AUD$65 per night.
In Atlantium’s 35 years of existence, George II (George Cruikshank) admits the micro-nation has had a fairly pragmatic relationship with the nation that surrounds it, with the Australian government confronting him on only one occasion about the circulation of Atlantium stamps in the Australian postal system. Says George II, “I wouldn’t want to take on Australia (in a conflict). It would be embarrassing if they lost.”
Says Craig Rasmus, of his film’s hero subject: “If he wasn’t the leader of another country I would say that George is a fascinating Australian. I find what he has done over the past 35 years both unbelievable and inspiring all at once. I hope the film lets people rethink what is considered achievable for an individual.”
Rasmus worked alongside his producer Rita Gagliardi on a three-day shoot to capture the story of Atlantium after first getting a glimpse inside the world of George II late last year.
“Over the 2015 Christmas break I saw an interview with Emperor George II on ABC News, Australia. His story fascinated me and I thought it would be a great story to tell in a creatively engaging way that was as unique as the story itself.”
You can watch Atlantium: The Smallest Country In Australia here:
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