Michael Hutchence is a figure of Australian music who’s legacy has proven to be nigh untouchable in the decades since his passing. The frontman of INXS, Hutchence to many, represents the ideal rock star.
Charming, talented, oozing with sex appeal, yet also battling a myriad of demons, Hutchence’s story is one that has been told many times through different directorial lenses. The latest to step up to the plate in shining a light on one of Australian rock’s most tragic and celebrated figures in Aussie filmmaker Richard Lowenstein (He Died With a Falafel in His Hand).
His documentary, Mystify Michael, recently had its world premiere at New York’s Tribeca Film Festival, and now comes to Australia. Preview screenings are locked in for cinemas in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth this weekend, before being released on July 4th. As one of the features on this year’s Sydney Film Festival program, Mystify Michael is set to be a must see for INXS fans and wider Australian music fans in general.
For context, the relationship between Lowenstein and INXS runs deep already, with the director having a hand in the creation of some of the band’s most notable music videos including ‘Need You Tonight’, ‘Never Tear Us Apart’, ‘New Sensation’ and ‘Suicide Blonde’. Hutchence even played the lead role in Lowenstein’s debut feature film, Dogs in Space.
Mystify Michael delves into archival footage of Hutchence, as well as interviews with those in his close circle, including INXS members and Kylie Minogue.
It looks to be an emotional ride for INXS fans and Hutchence loyalists, buckle up and check the trailer out below.
Along with the release of the doco, a soundtrack is also lined up for release, featuring rarities, deep cuts and of course, the hits from INXS’ catalogue, headed up by Chris M. Murphy – long-time INXS manager and Mark Edwards.
“There were plenty of tears of remembrance along with tears of joy as we were doing something Michael would love,” Murray said of the project. “We are entering an exciting period of rediscovery of their (INXS) legacy and a reassessment of their place in music history.”
Check out the first release from Mystify – A Musical Journey With Michael Hutchence, ‘Spill The Wine’ below. The soundtrack will be released on July 5th.
‘Mystify Michael’ Preview Screenings
Thursday, 6th June
State Theatre, Sydney
Tickets: Sydney Film Festival
Friday, 7th June
Event Cinemas (George Street), Sydney
Tickets: Sydney Film Festival
Saturday, 8th June
The Astor, Melbourne
Tickets: Eventbrite
Wednesday, 12th June
IMAX, Melbourne
Tickets: IMAX
Wednesday, 12th June
Luna Leederville, Perth
Tickets: Palace Nova
‘Mystify – A Musical Journey With Michael Hutchence’ Tracklist
Let It Ride
Deliver Me (Demo)
Black & White
Need You Tonight (Live, 1988)
Under My Thumb (Michael Hutchence & London Symphony Orchestra)
Please (You Got That)
What You Need
Don’t Change
Spill The Wine (Michael Hutchence)
Devil Inside
Love Is (What I Say)
Baby Don’t Cry
All I’m Saying (Michael Hutchence)
Shine Like It Does
Burn For You
Viking Juice
Kiss The Dirt (Falling Down The Mountain)
Original Sin
Never Tear Us Apart (Michael Hutchence, Mylène Farmer, INXS)
