‘CLAPTRAP’, a documentary about beloved Australian band Kingswood and the longest Australian Tour on record, premiered last Friday night at the Astor Theatre.
A huge success by all accounts, the first night included a special Q&A with the band and Michael McMahon – the executive chairman of Matchbox Pictures. The premiere was followed by a second Melbourne showing at the Thornbury Picture House on the 5th – and a screening at the Pivotonian Cinema in Geelong on the 6th.
Director Darcy Newton said of the event; “It was incredible to be able to share CLAPTRAP with fans of Kingswood and fans of film at the Astor Theatre. Much like Kingswood’s performances, CLAPTRAP is about spectacle and energy – which our premiere event delivered in spades.”
Echoing this – producer Luca Catalano commented “I can’t imagine anything more humbling than having the opportunity to premiere ones debut feature film in the national Mecca of cinema. We are so grateful for the Astor Theatre for screening our film, and Kingswood’s fans for the exceptional turnout.”
Directed by Darcy Newton and produced by Luca Catalano, CLAPTRAP provides a compelling insight into the life of a touring musician, while also highlighting the charisma and electrifying nature of KINGSWOOD when they are in their natural element – on stages of all kinds.
Says Newton of the experience, “When KINGSWOOD asked me, a 23 year old filmmaker, to document Australia’s longest ever tour, I knew that if I actually managed to make it home, the film would be very unique and strange. I wanted to create an unreplicable, charming and honest glimpse into the extraordinary world of touring musicians, and this became CLAPTRAP.”
For Catalano and Newton, stepping into the world of live music and touring in this way left an indelible mark on them as creatives; ultimately making for an exciting final product.
As they explain, “We are filmmakers still from a maturing generation, whose voice, perspectives and concerns aren’t hugely represented on the big screen yet. It’s exciting to be able to contribute and complicate this representation. Certainly, this film has been made for fans of KINGSWOOD. If you want to see your favourite rock band wake up together, sleep, eat, argue, dance, drive – and of course, perform – tune in.”
