“Pink Narcissus” Queer Classic Cult Film Restored – Australian Premiere Screening
The 1971 underground sensation Pink Narcissus is an independently produced classic of queer art cinema. The film has had a complete 4K restoration and will screen as part of the First Films festival in Sydney.
The festival, now in its fourth year, runs from November 5 to 9 at the Golden Age Cinema and Bar. This screening marks the Australian Premiere of the new, restored print.
A jewel-encrusted escape…
Directed by photographer James Bidgood, Pink Narcissus centres on a handsome, self-involved young sex worker, played by Bobby Kendall. He escapes the realities of his street life by retreating into a series of fantasies.
Obsessed with his own perfection, he imagines himself in various roles, from a matador to a Roman slave, all set against a backdrop of captivating colours, elaborate costumes, and strikingly attractive men. His room becomes a “jewel-encrusted retreat” from the world.
When reality gets in the way.
It’s a kaleidoscopic look at a man whose entire enchantment with himself is threatened by one great fear: ageing and the loss of his youth. This stunning new restoration promises to burn just as brightly as the original.
James Bidgood was a visionary artist who built elaborate sets in his tiny New York apartment, created the costumes for his characters and was single-minded in producing this sexy and somewhat eccentric masterpiece. That it was made in 1971, when filmmaking was more involved and technically gruelling than today, speaks to his determination. Bidgood’s photography and Pink Narcissus influenced LGBTQIA+ photographers and artists for generations.
Book your seat via Golden Age’s Pink Narcissus page. The listing confirms the restoration and premiere status, and includes purchase options. Grab tickets here.
