Paul Kelly: Stories Of Me

We often wait until an artist has passed before celebrating their life's work, so it's refreshing to sink into the comfort of Hamer Hall's seats and acknowledge Paul Kelly's ongoing legacy. There's a basic chronology to Paul Kelly: Stories Of Me, but this is not strictly adhered to as archival footage is interspersed with current-day interviews and fantastic live performance clips (footage from Falls Festival in Lorne depicts Kelly's generation-spanning appeal). But why's Megan Washington in it, singing Meet Me In The Middle Of The Air seemingly unprompted? Handwritten lyrics appear regularly onscreen, which provides a pleasing thread of continuity. Director Ian Darling later explains much effort was made to avoid these phrases resembling karaoke prompts. Amusingly, we learn Kelly was born in a Morris motor vehicle, hence his middle name (Morris). And who knew some of Kelly's songs were inspired by psalms?  Massive applause accompanies the “In memory of our dads” dedication that scrolls up in closing credits, cementing Kelly's songs as a family affair. When the subject of Paul Kelly: Stories Of Me wanders out on stage, avec guitar, we can't believe our luck. Turns out Kelly's been sitting out the back. He tells us he's already sat through this film once, which was enough (for him). We're then treated to three new songs that prove Kelly's continuing to achieve his aim of writing great songs. To conclude proceedings, Brain Nankervis facilitates a fascinating chat with Darling. The film is a triumphant representation of this national songwriting treasure.

Cinema Nova, Palace Como and Brighton Bay from Thursday 8 November