Seven years after the release of “Working Class Boy,” where rock legend Jimmy Barnes bared his soul about his tumultuous upbringing, a long-awaited sequel is finally hitting the screens. “Working Class Man” is set to premiere at the prestigious Melbourne International Film Festival on August 21, followed by a broadcast on Seven later in the year. The film’s announcement at the official program launch of MIFF has stirred excitement among fans and critics alike.
Director Andrew Farrell, who also served as executive producer on the first film, expressed the long-standing desire to create a follow-up. The timing, however, had to align with Barnes’ demanding schedule. Last year provided a brief window where Barnes, along with his musical collaborators, could delve into interviews and acoustic recordings for the film. Despite the emotional intensity of revisiting his past, Barnes soldiered on, even as his physical health posed challenges.
Farrell views “Working Class Man” as the concluding chapter in Barnes’ arduous journey, marked by years of introspection and healing following his decision to share his story. The evolution from the acclaimed “Working Class Boy” book to stage shows and now films has been a cathartic process for Barnes, albeit one fraught with emotional labor. Farrell underscores the profound impact of each retelling on Barnes’ psyche, portraying it as a form of therapeutic release.
The film not only delves into Barnes’ personal struggles but also shines a spotlight on his enduring partnership with his wife, Jane. Their unwavering bond, weathered by life’s trials and tribulations, forms a poignant narrative thread throughout the story. While aspects like Barnes’ revelation of “secret” children do not feature in this portrayal, the essence of family and resilience permeates the film.
Farrell emphasizes that “Working Class Man” is not a conventional music documentary; rather, it is an intimate portrayal of Jimmy and Jane’s intertwined journey of survival and love. Jane emerges as a central figure, credited as the pillar of strength that has supported Barnes through his darkest moments. Her pivotal role in Barnes’ life underscores the film’s thematic focus on resilience and the redemptive power of enduring love.
As the Melbourne International Film Festival approaches, anticipation is high for the premiere of “Working Class Man.” The film promises to offer audiences a raw and unfiltered look into the legendary rocker’s life, showcasing the indomitable spirit that has defined Jimmy Barnes’ remarkable story. Through its narrative of triumph over adversity and the enduring power of love, “Working Class Man” stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative nature of storytelling.
Leave feedback about this