In the world of cinema, it's not uncommon for a film to be rediscovered and given a second life. But for James Reyne, the resurgence of the 1983 Australian film Going Down is a particularly poignant reminder of a lost love. As a young actor, Reyne was involved in the film, which was almost forgotten until an American filmmaker and distributor, Elizabeth Purchell, stumbled upon a VHS copy in a New York video store. Now, more than four decades later, the film is getting a second life in Australian cinemas, thanks to a generous restoration effort.
What makes this story so fascinating is the personal connection Reyne has to the film. He met Vera Plevnik, the talented actress who starred in the film, while studying at the Victorian College of the Arts. Their relationship was short-lived, but Plevnik's death in a car accident in 1982 left a lasting impression on Reyne. The film, which was almost forgotten, became a symbol of their lost love and the fleeting nature of life.
In my opinion, the film's resurgence is a testament to the power of cinema to capture a moment in time and preserve it for future generations. It's also a reminder of the importance of supporting independent filmmakers and the value of preserving our cultural heritage. The fact that the film was restored in 4K and released in boutique cinemas in the US and now in Australia is a remarkable achievement.
One thing that immediately stands out is the film's unique perspective on young women in contemporary Australian films. At the time, it was rare to see female-centered films that portrayed young women as complex, flawed, and multifaceted. The film's portrayal of young women as drug-taking, party-going, and fighting for each other was refreshing and groundbreaking.
What many people don't realize is that the film was initially met with resistance from cinema distributors. The film's gritty, energetic style and its focus on young women made it an unlikely candidate for mainstream success. However, the film's unique perspective and its ability to capture a moment in time made it a cult classic, and its resurgence is a testament to its enduring appeal.
If you take a step back and think about it, the film's resurgence is a reminder of the importance of supporting independent filmmakers and the value of preserving our cultural heritage. It's also a reminder of the power of cinema to capture a moment in time and preserve it for future generations. The film's ability to connect with audiences across generations is a testament to its timeless appeal.
This raises a deeper question: what makes a film truly timeless? Is it the quality of its storytelling, the depth of its characters, or the ability to capture a moment in time? In my opinion, it's a combination of all three. The film's ability to connect with audiences across generations is a testament to its enduring appeal, and its resurgence is a reminder of the importance of supporting independent filmmakers and preserving our cultural heritage.
