A twisted tale of ascent, realisation and implosion tells the story of The Birthday Party’s rise, apex and inevitable collapse. The film, told in the group’s own words, deals with the issues of artistic muse, creativity, addiction, fame and the unique relationship between creative vision and self-destruction – all underpinned by the dark, wry humour of the individual band members.
Critics Reviews:
- “It’s not just the subjects who rock out but the whole cinematic kit and caboodle, with White imparting a sense that the film, too, is necking bottles, smoking dream pipes and banging around in the mosh pit, soon to wake up with a terrible hangover.” – Luke Buckmaster (Guardian)
- “If I want the approximate mix these posers affected, I'll read some actual Rimbaud while putting on some actual Johnny Cash, rather than listen to a band that has to keep announcing those are among their influences.” – Dennis Harvey (48 Hills)
- “What White captures is the raw yet deliberate, accidental but structured energy of the Birthday Party, and how a certain level of discomfort seemed to fuel their creativity and success.” – Richard Whittaker (Austin Chronicle)