In 1977, 27-year-old Robyn Davidson embarked on a 1,700 mile trek across the Australian outback, setting off from Alice Springs, heading for the west coast, armed only with four camels, one devoted dog and a sponsorship deal with National Geographic. John Curran's scenic yet intimate recreation of Davidson's epic journey makes for an engrossing watch, albeit one that unfolds at a walking pace.

Mia Wasikowska is terrific as the resourceful young woman confronting her personal demons in the desert. As for the animals whose company she favours, they become friends and family both to her and to us – the camels are bizarrely expressive creatures, their faces tailormade for anthropomorphic projection, while Diggity the dog will break the heart of even the most diehard canine agnostic. Not that this is sentimental fare; on the contrary, the film celebrates and explores both the loneliness and the resolve of its increasingly weathered protagonist, finding quiet heroism in the lone figure of "the Camel Lady".

A respectful attitude toward the indigenous people she encounters en route adds to the magic, with Roly Mintuma lending authentic heart and soul to the role of Aboriginal elder Mr Eddy, who accompanies Davidson through sacred grounds. Adam Driver makes easy work of the role of smitten photographer Rick Smollan who crosses Davidson's dogged path at regular intervals to document her journey and provide occasional TLC on demand.