We’re Livin’ on Dog Food

Judging by its focus on 'recollections' and 'animosties', 'We're Livin' on Dog Food' appears to lean away from a standard chronological or biographical approach. Instead, it seems to prioritise the personal narratives and sometimes conflicting memories of its participants. This suggests a more subjective and potentially confrontational viewing experience, driven by the candid exchanges between artists who shaped the Melbourne underground music scene.

Fans of Australian music history, particularly the post-punk and experimental genres, will find much to engage with. The documentary is essential viewing for anyone interested in the origins of iconic artists and bands that emerged from Melbourne during the late 1970s and early 1980s. It also appeals to those who appreciate in depth explorations of subcultures and the raw creative energy that fuels artistic movements.

This film aims for an unvarnished look at the Melbourne underground music scene of the late 70s and early 80s. The narrative explicitly promises a 'warts and all' exploration, suggesting it doesn't shy away from the animosities and complexities that arose within this creative environment. The inclusion of diverse voices, including those with differing perspectives, hints at an attempt to present a multifaceted, if sometimes contentious, portrait of the era.

The documentary features recollections from prominent figures who were central to Melbourne's 1977-1981 underground music milieu. Notable contributors include Rowland S. Howard, Ollie Olsen, and Phillip Brophy, alongside Alannah Hill and Chuck Meo. Their insights offer a personal and often candid perspective on the scene, its creative output, and the dynamics between the artists involved during that formative period.

The film delves into Melbourne's vibrant underground music scene between 1977 and 1981, a period colloquially known as the 'Little Band scene'. This era was crucial as it fostered the development of influential artists like Nick Cave and Rowland S. Howard, and bands such as The Birthday Party and the Primitive Calculators. Venues like the Crystal Ballroom served as vital incubators for this raw, experimental music, shaping a unique cultural moment that continues to resonate.