Let's dive into a hidden gem of a story, one that will take us back to the vibrant, rebellious heart of St Kilda's music scene. This week, we're exploring the power of perspective through two unique documentaries that offer a fresh take on a beloved era.
The Power of the Audience
St Kilda, a suburb with a rich rock 'n' roll history, is about to relive its glory days. Two rarely-seen documentaries, screening at The Astor Cinema, promise a different angle on the iconic venues and bands that defined the area. These films shift the focus from the stage to the audience, revealing a world of fashion, attitude, and an energy that's hard to ignore.
Filmmaker Tony Stevens and his partner, Sue Davis, had an epiphany in 1980. They realized that the crowds at gigs were a spectacle in themselves. With Stevens' filming skills and Davis' connections, they set out to capture the 'look' of the time, an era they now recognize as post-punk or New Wave.
"We loved the fashion, the haircuts, the attitude. It was a new look, and we wanted to document it." - Tony Stevens
Their film, "Punkline," is a short but powerful glimpse into this world. It features early performances by bands like The Cure and captures a moment in time that feels both timeless and unique. The fashion might be familiar, but the indoor smoking and lack of diversity are reminders of how much has changed.
Capturing a Community
Kate Morrow and Louise Avery's documentary, "Last Drinks," takes us to a later period in St Kilda's history. It's a time capsule of the pre-gentrification era, a time when The Prince of Wales Hotel was a microcosm of the suburb's diverse community. From drag queens to barflies, musicians to locals, their film captures a warm, open-hearted atmosphere that's now a distant memory.
"It felt like quite an open-hearted, warm community. If you lived there, you were accepted straight away." - Kate Morrow
The film's poor quality is a testament to their passion and determination to capture this moment. It's a raw, unfiltered look at a community that's no longer there, a reminder of the power of place and the people who make it special.
A Deeper Look
These documentaries offer a deeper understanding of St Kilda's music scene. They show us that it's not just about the music, but the people, the fashion, and the community that surrounds it. They remind us of the impact of place and time, and how these factors shape the experiences we have and the memories we hold dear.
So, as we prepare to watch these films, we're not just revisiting a past era. We're exploring the power of perspective, the impact of community, and the timeless appeal of a good story well told.
Conclusion
St Kilda Rocks is more than just a double bill of documentaries. It's a journey through time, a celebration of community, and a reminder of the impact we can have on each other and our environments. These films are a testament to the power of storytelling and the unique perspectives that make our world so fascinating.
