Staff Picks
Our Library staff have chosen four (4) recommendations, with some words explaining each pick.
They include everything from films and TV series to books, podcasts, music and beyond.
They can be accessed either online or from the Library's physical collection (for AFTRS staff and students only).
Frazer
Collection Development Librarian
Raquel
User Experience Librarian
Tahrin
Contractor Librarian
Hayley
Library & Information Services Manager
Cathie
Receptionist
Frazer
LOSING GROUND
Dir. Kathleen Collins (1982)
An under-appreciated gem of independent filmmaking. This is an inspired, low-budget triumph filled with great characters and some transcendent moments.
SOMETHING WILD
Dir. Jonathan Demme (1986)
A brilliant entry into the "80s yuppie goes on a wild adventure" sub-genre. There is such an infectious, creative energy that radiates from this movie. Always an inspiring watch.
THE FLY
Dir. David Cronenberg (1986)
I first watched this as a teenager and have never been able to quite shake this movie. It's got it all: sci-fi, horror, spectacle, humour, romance, and tragedy, all driven by magnetic performances from Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis. A must-see, and even if you have already: very re-watchable.
AUSTRALIA DAZE
Dir. Pat Fiske (1988)
Shot over 24 hours on the 26th of January, 1988, this insightful documentary observes the events of the day: bicentennial celebrations take place across Australia amid a backdrop of Indigenous rights protests, family barbecues, and political ceremonies. Sly, inquisitive, and subversive, this now 35-year-old document makes for both entertaining and sobering viewing.
Raquel
HEAVEN
Dir. Diane Keaton (1987)
A most interesting doc in which regular folk are asked such questions as: What is heaven? Is there sex in heaven? How do you get to heaven? How do you get to hell? All interspersed with footage depicting Heaven on film. Directed by Diane Keaton no less!
LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN
Dir. Uli Edel (1989)
Look, it's not the greatest film ever made, but there's something about it that's made me rewatch it countless times. Maybe it's Jennifer Jason Leigh's performance as Tralala, the world-weary local hooker, or Ricki Lake as the soon-to-be teen mum, or Alexis Arquette as the doomed transvestite Georgette. It's depressing as hell that's for sure, and one of the most loveless films I've ever seen. What do you expect from the director of Christine F.?
AFTER HOURS
Dir. Martin Scorsese (1985)
I will never stop recommending this film. It's my fave Scorsese! Set over the course of one night in 80s New York, a man (the gorgeous Griffin Dunne) is just trying to get home, but absurd circumstances won't let him. I got high once and watched this and realised he's in purgatory. Does he get to Heaven? Watch and see!
RIVER'S EDGE
Dir. Tim Hunter (1986)
Talk about depressing! A dead-behind-the-eyes teen brags to his friend that he murdered his girlfriend. He even shows them her lifeless, naked body he left by the river's edge. The film is about their reactions. Someone online described it as "Stand By Me for degenerates" which is a perfect summation.
Tahrin
ONCE UPON A TIME IN AMERICA
Dir. Sergio Leone (1984)
I wouldn't have thought that any one movie might challenge the entire catalogue of gangster films made by Martin Scorsese. But here we are. This movie cements Leone as one of the all time greats and demonstrates that he's not limited to the Western genre. It's a magnum opus of the genre that could compete in conversation with The Godfather any day.
BLIND FURY
Dir. Phillip Noyce (1989)
Rutger Hauer is a blind Vietnam vet trained in samurai(?) ways by the local Vietnamese and embarks on an action-packed road trip to reunite John Locke from Lost with his son. That's the movie. Do you need anything else? Directed by AFTRS alumnus Phillip Noyce, so you have a high bar to clear.
SWIMMING TO CAMBODIA
Dir. Jonathan Demme (1987)
Spalding Gray is one of those unique characters who just exudes a kinda neurotic but affable charisma that inhabits you. It's like watching Andre Gregory or Woody Allen, that New Yorker sensibility. In this monologue, Gray recounts his experiences filming The Killing Fields and the modern history of Cambodia. After you're done, check out True Stories by David Byrne for a Spalding Gray marathon.
DEAD MEN DON'T WEAR PLAID
Dir. Carl Reiner (1982)
The editing in this movie is the star. Steve Martin rubs shoulders with some of Hollywood's biggest stars in one of his great early films. Martin and Reiner insert nearly twenty movies into this neo-noir comedy, crafting an ingenious balance of editing and writing. It's endless fun watching Martin go toe-to-toe with actors like Bogart and Bergman. Just don't talk about cleaning women in front of him!
Hayley
BEACHES
Dir. Garry Marshall (1988)
This is the ultimate tear-jerker. Warning: watch only with a box of tissues! With the amazing vocal styling of Bette Midler, this movie is a must-see for all chick flick enthusiasts, get ready for a cold winters evening snuggled on the couch in your oodie.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS
Dir. Herbert Ross (1989)
This film will have you in both hysterics and crying your eyes out, a tissue box is a must as you watch this film. With awesome performances from the stellar cast including Sally Fields, Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine, and Dolly Parton, this film is a must watch for all chick flick fans.
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Dir. Robert Zemeckis (1985)
The quintessential eighties film, Back to the Future is a classic! Who wouldn't want to go back in time and meet their parents as teenagers? Stellar performance by Michael J. Fox and, of course, the DeLorean!
CROCODILE DUNDEE
Dir. Peter Faiman (1986)
This is the highest grossing Australian film, how could I not put this on my eighties themed staff picks?
Cathie
THE GODS MUST BE CRAZY
Dir. Jamie Uys (1980)
The Gods Must Be Crazy is a charming, witty film that blends elements of humour, adventure, and social commentary. It is a unique film that offers an insightful look at cultural differences and the impact of modernity on traditional societies.
THE SHINING
Dir. Stanley Kubrick (1980)
Based on Stephen King's novel. If you like a thriller that isn't full of jump scares but instead gets inside your head and comes off as both insane and believable, you'll love this film.
RAGING BULL
Dir. Martin Scorsese (1980)
There is unquestionable ugliness in Raging Bull, but there is also astonishing power. It may shock you and it will definitely drain you. You won't soon forget it.
BLUE VELVET
Dir. David Lynch (1986)
Watching Blue Velvet is not pretty, it requires a strong constitution. This film take an unflinching look at the darker side of human nature. The message of this film is clear: perfection also hides deeply rooted rot.