Michael Hutchence, Go-Betweens Docos To Hit Aussie TV Screens Soon

Following news earlier this year that two documentaries about late INXS frontman Michael Hutchence are in the works, it has this week been confirmed that one of those films has received funding, as has a new documentary based on fellow iconic Australian act, the Go-Betweens.

As TV Tonight reports, the music documentaries are two of five films Screen Australia have announced funding for. 

"These projects do not shy away from hard-hitting stories that show the realities of living in a complex world," Senior Manager of Documentary at Screen Australia, Liz Stevens said. 

"These teams impressed us with their desire to tell compelling personal stories and explore important social issues of today."

The Hutchence doco, Mystify, is co-produced and directed by Richard Lowenstein, who worked a number of times with INXS during their career, including as director for their What You Need video clip (1985).

The news comes only weeks after a campaign was launched calling for a statue of the iconic singer to be erected in Sydney next year to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his death.

Meanwhile, the Go-Betweens film, Right Here: Finding The Go-Betweens, is to be directed by Kriv Stenders (Red Dog) and will have its premiere at next year's Sydney film festival. 

Speaking to Fairfax, Stenders said the project has been in the works for some time. 

"This is very much a dream project for me, as The Go-Betweens and their music have been a fundamental part of my life since I was 15 years old," Stenders said.

"To be able to tell and share their epic story and to have original members on board with me is a thrill beyond definition."

Stenders also directed several music videos for the band, including 1988's Streets of Your Town.