First Wave You Should Have Been Here Yesterday + Director Q&A

10 August 2024

In the Playhouse

Cinema

Australia | 2023 | English | Documentary

A poetic homage to Australia’s early surf-culture with unearthed footage set to an original soundtrack. You Should Have Been Here Yesterday combines hundreds of hours of lovingly restored 16mm footage with a salt-infused soundscape by Headland.

This special screening is followed by a Q&A with film director Jolyon Hoff.

A lovingly crafted chronicle of Australia’s surf culture

This cinematic poem tells the story of a wild community who took off up the coast and discovered a whole new way to live. Going back to the never-before-seen camera reels to ask the question – what do we keep and what do we leave behind? Featuring Tim Winton, Wayne Lynch, Bob McTavish, Albe Falzon, Evelyn Rich, Maurice Cole and many more.

Presented by Sydney Opera House and Tracks

Trailer

Watch the trailer

Cast and credits

Credits

Jolyon Hoff
Director

Craig Griffin, Hamish Gibbs Ludbrook, Jolyon Hoff
Producer

Ursula Woods
Cinematographer

Featuring

Tim Winton

Wayne Lynch

Bob McTavish

Albe Falzon

Other information

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