Ross Campbell has been a friend of mine for decades and he's just published a book titled MELBOURNE and the MOVIES - Confessions of a Certified Cinephile. The book is about Ross' filmic journey from a young age until the present time, but he creates a vivid context that celebrates the wonder that cinema is. His knowledge of Melbourne's film history is unsurpassed and the inspiring and at times sad history of the magnificent cinema houses that once graced our cities and suburbs is fascinating. He explores the Melbourne influence, not only on Australian culture, but on world culture. by bringing attention to the many people who have been inspired to create and preserve Melbourne's film history. Beautifully written and offering a generous amount of wonderful images it truly is an engrossing read.
Ross is an unassuming and modest man so it was a surprise to find out the force he's been in Melbourne's cinematic history. Projectionist, technician, film director, music editor, cinema designer, publicist, film festival adviser are just a few of the hats Ross has worn, and is still wearing.
His book launch at the Astor Theatre was a festive occasion indeed, there was such a buzz in the air and during an interview with Zac Hepburn, film critic and manager of the Astor, Ross told a few of the stories that are in the book which were at times funny, witty, celebratory and poignant. But everything Ross had to say was interesting. The occasion was instantly uplifting because as you entered the Astor some delightful piano melodies could be heard from upstairs, played by Norman Camm. Ross always does things with a touch of class.
I was also pleased that Ross chose a small painting I did to be included in the book. The painting, which Ross owns, is of a scene inside a cinema where a modern audience is viewing one of the first films ever shown, The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat Station by the Lumiere brothers.
Afterwards Ross shouted some friends to lunch so it was a wonderful way to end this memorable occasion. Thank you, Ross and congratulations on a wonderful and important publication.
Photo credits - Deborah Klein
