Paul Kelly: Stories of Me

Paul Kelly: Stories of Me is a 2012 Australian documentary that explores the life and career of one of the country's most revered musicians, Paul Kelly. Directed by Ian Darling, the film is a deeply personal portrait of Kelly, told through the artist's own words and a wealth of archival footage, interviews, and performances.

The documentary follows Kelly's rise to fame and the ups and downs of his career over several decades. From his early days as a young songwriter in Adelaide, to his stint as a member of the Melbourne-based band The Dots, and his solo career as one of the country's most respected and influential musicians, the film offers a fascinating insight into Kelly's creative process and the stories behind some of his most beloved songs.

Throughout the film, Kelly speaks candidly about his art and his life. He shares his thoughts on the creative process, the importance of collaboration, and the joys and challenges of making music. He also reflects on his personal life, including his relationships, his struggles with addiction, and his experiences of living in Australia and touring the world.

The film features interviews with a range of musicians and artists who have been influenced by Kelly's music, including Kasey Chambers, Tim Finn, and Archie Roach. They share their thoughts on Kelly's unique style, his lasting impact on Australian music, and the ways in which his music has touched their own lives.

Another major thread of the film is Kelly's relationship with his hometown of Adelaide. The documentary explores the city's influence on Kelly's music and his continued connection to the place where he grew up. As Kelly revisits his childhood haunts and performs in some of the city's iconic venues, the film captures the deep sense of nostalgia and belonging that he feels for Adelaide.

Kelly's music is also front and center in the film, with a wealth of live performances and studio recordings woven throughout the narrative. From early classics like "To Her Door" and "Before Too Long" to more recent hits like "How to Make Gravy" and "Dumb Things," the film showcases the breadth and depth of Kelly's songwriting and his ability to capture the beauty and complexity of everyday life.

Overall, Paul Kelly: Stories of Me is a rich and rewarding documentary that offers a fascinating insight into one of Australia's most beloved musicians. With its mix of interviews, performances, and personal stories, the film paints a vivid and intimate portrait of a man who has made an indelible mark on his country's cultural landscape. So, if you are a fan of Paul Kelly's music or just interested in learning more about Australian music and culture, this documentary is definitely worth a watch.