Puberty Blues

By Josh Ives

When it comes to celebrating the surf culture in Australia, especially the beginnings – there are a few classics to keep an eye out for. Such archival footage like Taj Burrows, Montaj – a radical look at one the countries finest surfers, from grommet to professional. Then we have Bra Boys, narrated by the husky tones of Russell Crowe, painting a dark, yet engaging illustration of surf culture. When it comes to throwing back to the easier days, the days of long boards and short shorts, there are only a handful of classics that really stand up while telling a story.

So it comes with great pleasure to inform you that a special screening of the 1981 cult surf-flick Puberty Blues will take over the Ritz in Randwick, with a Q&A with the original director Bruce Beresford, hosted by SBS’s Lee Lin Chin.

Yep, grab some mates, a cheeky drink and get ready to get hit right in the feels with a classic coming-of-age story of two teen surf chicks and their rite of passage into womanhood. I’m not a spoiler guy, in fact, I detest spoilers, so I won’t go into detail – but there’s a reason the film captured the heart of the nation back in the day. Catching the universally relatable whirlwind of emotions that comes with teen-hood, coupled with the female struggles of the 70’s, director Bruce Beresford delivers a poignant vision that’s relatable to all generations.

What’s more, all proceeds from the event go to helping Sunrise Cambodia continue their efforts in assisting poor Cambodian communities with healthcare, housing and education. A sell-out event can expect to generate over $500,000 for the cause.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your ticket, head down to the classiest of establishments – the Ritz in Randwick – and enjoy a good Aussie indie.

Puberty Blues is screening at the Ritz Cinema in Randwick on October 20 – grab tickets HERE.