James Reyne, the former member of Australian Crawl, reminisces about a film that holds a special place in his heart. In the 1980s, Reyne was studying acting at the Victorian College of the Arts when he met Vera Plevnik, a talented student who would later star in the film 'Monkey Grip'. Their relationship blossomed, but they eventually went their separate ways, with Reyne pursuing a successful music career and Plevnik gaining recognition for her acting. However, their paths crossed again when Plevnik was tragically killed in a car accident in 1982 while filming 'Going Down', a film that would become a significant part of Reyne's life.
'Going Down' is a gritty, energetic drama that captures the social history of Australia during that era. It follows four young women on their last night out before one of them leaves for New York, showcasing their drug culture, parties, and close friendships. Reyne was drawn to the film's authenticity and the way it portrayed the lives of young people in Sydney at the time. He particularly enjoyed the performances of the cast, including Plevnik, who he believed showcased her talent as an actress.
The film faced challenges upon its initial release in 1983, as it was disliked by cinema distributors and only found an audience in Sydney. However, it has since gained a cult following and is now being rediscovered by a new generation of viewers. An American filmmaker and distributor, Elizabeth Purchell, played a pivotal role in bringing the film back to life. She discovered an imported VHS copy in a New York video store and recognized its potential, leading to its restoration in 4K and a boutique cinema release in the US. Now, over four decades after its initial release, 'Going Down' is getting a second life in Australian cinemas, much to the delight of Reyne and the film's director, Haydn Keenan.
Keenan expresses his excitement about the film's revival, highlighting the hard work and generosity of film industry friends who restored it. He believes that the film's authenticity and female-centric narrative have contributed to its enduring appeal. Reyne also appreciates the film's focus on young women and its portrayal of their lives, which was rare in contemporary Australian films at the time. The film's soundtrack, featuring artists like Pel Mel, Dynamic Hepnotics, and The Birthday Party, further enhances its impact.
'Going Down' serves as a reminder of a bygone era in Australian culture, characterized by an explosive energy and a thriving nightlife. Keenan reflects on the challenges of raising funds for feature films today, contrasting it with the easier process during that time. The film's revival not only provides an opportunity for the original cast to relive their past but also introduces the film to a new generation of viewers, ensuring its legacy continues.
