In the world of cinema, it's not uncommon for a film to be forgotten, only to be rediscovered and given a second life. But for James Reyne, the 1983 Australian film Going Down is more than just a forgotten memory; it's a testament to a past love and a reflection of a bygone era. Reyne, who was once an aspiring actor himself, met Vera Plevnik, a talented student at the Victorian College of the Arts, and they became a couple. Plevnik went on to star in Going Down, a gritty drama that captured the energy and drug culture of Sydney in the 1980s. Unfortunately, Plevnik was killed in a car accident before the film was released, and Going Down was initially met with indifference by cinema distributors. But now, more than four decades later, the film is getting a second life, thanks to the efforts of an American filmmaker and distributor, Elizabeth Purchell. What makes this story particularly fascinating is the way it brings together the past and the present, and how it highlights the enduring power of cinema to capture a moment in time. In my opinion, Going Down is a hidden gem that deserves to be rediscovered and celebrated. The film's release in the US last year was a testament to its enduring appeal, and now it's getting a boutique cinema release in Australia. What makes this particularly interesting is the way it reflects a bygone era in Australian culture, a time when there was an explosive energy in the nightlife of Kings Cross and live bands were everywhere. But it's also a reminder of the tragedy that befell Plevnik, a talented actress who had a massive career in front of her. The film's restoration in 4K is a testament to the dedication of the film industry, and it's a reminder of the importance of preserving our cinematic heritage. Personally, I think Going Down is a must-see for anyone interested in Australian cinema and the cultural landscape of the 1980s. It's a film that captures the essence of a bygone era, and it's a reminder of the power of cinema to bring people together and create lasting memories. From my perspective, Going Down is a hidden gem that deserves to be celebrated and rediscovered, and it's a testament to the enduring power of cinema to capture a moment in time.
