My Brilliant Career

Sybylla (Judy Davis), a headstrong, free spirited girl growing up in late 19th century Australia, has the opportunity of marriage to a young man, Harry (Sam Neill), a wealthy suitor and childhood friend, but rejects it in order to maintain her independence, instead being forced to take a job as governess/housekeeper to the family of an illiterate neighbour to whom her father owes money. After returning home, she again rejects another proposal by Harry so she can write her novel, My Brilliant Career.