A Glimpse into St Kilda's Rock 'n' Roll History
St Kilda, a suburb with a rich cultural past, is about to relive its vibrant rock 'n' roll era through two unique documentaries. These films, rarely seen, offer a fascinating perspective on the local music scene, focusing not just on the bands, but on the people who made it so iconic.
The Power of the Audience
What many don't realize is that the heart of any music scene lies as much with the audience as with the performers. Filmmakers Tony Stevens and Sue Davis understood this back in 1980. They recognized that the crowds at gigs were often as captivating as the artists on stage. This insight led them to create 'Punkline', a short documentary that captures the essence of the Crystal Ballroom's audience.
In my opinion, this shift in focus is what makes these documentaries so intriguing. They provide a rare glimpse into the fashion, attitude, and overall vibe of the era, seen through the lens of those who were there to experience it. It's a celebration of the people who made the St Kilda music scene what it was.
A Snapshot of a Bygone Era
'Punkline' transports us to the Crystal Ballroom, a hub for the post-punk and New Wave movements. The film, with its minimalist soundtrack and field recordings, is a time capsule of an era. Interestingly, it highlights an aspect of music history that is often overlooked—the evolution of audience culture.
One detail that stands out is the observation by Stevens that while some things have changed, others remain eerily similar. The smoking indoors, the cash registers, and the lack of diversity in the audience are all reminders of a different time. Yet, the fashion, which Stevens describes as almost timeless, could easily be mistaken for contemporary styles. This blend of the familiar and the dated is what makes historical documentaries so compelling.
The Last Days of a Landmark
'Last Drinks' takes us to the Prince of Wales Hotel, another iconic St Kilda venue. Filmmakers Kate Morrow and Louise Avery, armed with a camera and a passion for their community, documented the pub's final days before its renovation. This film is a tribute to the diverse community that called the Prince home.
What's particularly fascinating is how the film captures the pub's ecosystem, from drag queens to local musicians and elderly residents. It's a testament to the inclusive nature of St Kilda's pre-gentrification era. The Prince, as Morrow describes, was a microcosm of the suburb's unique social fabric, where different groups coexisted harmoniously.
The Impact of Documentation
These documentaries serve as more than just historical records. They are powerful tools for preserving and understanding local culture. Footage from 'Punkline' has found its way into other films, influencing how we remember that era. Meanwhile, 'Last Drinks' provides a snapshot of a community that has since evolved, offering a sense of nostalgia and a reminder of the importance of preserving such moments.
Personally, I find these films to be more than just entertainment. They are windows into the past, allowing us to appreciate the evolution of music scenes and the communities they foster. They challenge us to reflect on how we document and remember our own local histories.
As St Kilda revisits its rock 'n' roll roots, these documentaries offer a chance to celebrate the past while considering what these moments mean for the present and future. They remind us that the true spirit of a place is often found in the people and the everyday moments that define it.
