The story of war is often seen as a masculine story. The film "Gallipoli," by Peter Weir is a reflection of the views and opinions of what society considered to be masculine within an Australian culture. The main focus of the film was centered on two male characters: Archie and Frank. From early in the film gender plays an important role as evidence by Archie wanted to emulate Harry Lascelles, the world champion over 100 yards who was honored and looked upon as a respected person. Archie aspired to be honored like his Harry Lascelles, he wanted to be strong, to be respected and to be a champion one day and most of all he wants to make his uncle and his country proud. His uncle saw the potential in him and trained him to fulfil his dreams. Archie became a good runner and was able to capture the coveted prize of first place. He was hoisted and praised and he liked that feeling of accomplishment. After the race Archie met Frank who would become his lifetime mate. Their growing relationship helped to reinforce the film's construction of masculinity, thus creating a cultural reference of male mate-ship. The origin of mate-ship comes from the men of Australian Outback. It represented a complex mix of rivalry and respect, loyalty and love. .
This form of mateship is clearly shown between Archie and Frank's friendship, from the time they met at the race within a rivalry competition against each for the win. They took the journey together across the desert to help Archie sign up for the war. Their relationship progressed into brotherly love for which Frank abandon his friends to join Archie in the Light Horse Brigade. This brotherly love continues into the final act, where Archie offered his place as a runner to help fellow soldiers, while Archie gets his opportunity to defend his country and make his country proud and gain the respect and honor that he so desperately wants to accomplish. Peter Weir's view of masculinity was seen everywhere in the film.
