You Should Have Been Here Yesterday

'You Should Have Been Here Yesterday' shares a spirit of archival exploration and personal reflection with 'Moonage Daydream,' but applies it to a different cultural milieu. While 'Moonage Daydream' delved into the life of a rock icon, this film uses its extensive footage to examine a collective experience of discovering a new way to live along the coast. Both films prioritise an immersive, often poetic, journey through personal and cultural history.

Absolutely. For documentary enthusiasts, this film offers a fascinating approach to archival material. The extensive use of restored 16mm footage and the thoughtful exploration of a specific community's history and ethos make it a compelling case study in non-traditional documentary storytelling. The 'cinematic poem' style suggests an artistic rather than purely factual presentation, appealing to those who appreciate innovative filmmaking.

Inspired by films like Jen Peedom's 'Mountain,' 'You Should Have Been Here Yesterday' taps into a distinctly Australian fascination with the coast and the pursuit of freedom. The presence of figures like Tim Winton, Wayne Lynch, and Bob McTavish grounds the film in a rich local heritage of surfing culture and counter-culture living, resonating deeply with audiences who connect with these narratives.

At its heart, the film grapples with questions of legacy and choice. By revisiting never-before-seen camera reels, it prompts reflection on what aspects of a community's experiences and values should be retained for the future and what should be discarded. It's a meditation on discovery, alternative lifestyles, and the inherent human drive to understand what we keep and what we leave behind.

The film's distinct character is forged through its visual and sonic elements. It is constructed from hundreds of hours of meticulously restored 16mm footage, offering a raw and authentic glimpse into the past. This is complemented by a 'salt-infused' soundscape crafted by Headland, which promises to immerse the audience in the coastal environment and the spirit of the community being explored.

The film boasts an impressive lineup of individuals integral to a particular coastal subculture. Viewers can expect to see insights from surfing legends and cultural figures such as Tim Winton, Wayne Lynch, Bob McTavish, and Albe Falzon. Evelyn Rich, Maurice Cole, Paul Witzig, Dick Hoole, and Steve Otton are also credited, suggesting a rich tapestry of voices and perspectives from this unique community.

This film is a cinematic poem, delving into the story of a community that ventured up the coast and discovered an alternative way of living. It utilises hundreds of hours of restored 16mm footage to explore what elements of this past life are worth preserving and which should be let go. The narrative is less a traditional plot and more an evocative exploration of a bygone era and its enduring questions.