Epi 199: Michael Hutchence in Movies

INXS: Access All Areas

Forever the creative soul, Michael Hutchence was born to be more than just a lead singer of an international rock band. From the early days, Michael embraced the theatrical possibilities of music video and was at the forefront in ensuring INXS songs captured a visual vibrancy and vitality.

As such, in today’s episode we dive deep into the critical performances that shaped and piqued Michael’s acting urges commencing in 1982 when Michael joined forces with iconic Cold Chisel songwriter, Don Walker in contributing to the seminal 1982 Australian film Freedom with two tracks and one video, notably Speed Kills that showcases a 21 year old Michael. The next 4 years were committed to INXS’ global ascent via albums Shabooh Shabaah, The Swing and Listen Like Thieves, plus the relentless touring attached to these triumvirate recordings. So, it took till 1986 for Michael to clear his schedule when the opportunity came up to star in Richard Lowenstein’s Dogs in Space came up. A movie that embraced the punk leanings of shared living suburbia amidst musical graft, this iconic art house movie has endured and influenced generations of fans and filmmakers over 38 years, despite its middling box office performance at the time.

Fast forward 4 years later post the juggernaut albums and tours that were Kick and X, Michael scratched a lifelong itch portraying famed British poet Percy Shelly, by joining Bridget Fonda, John Hurt, Jason Patric and Raul Julia in legendary Hollywood Director Roger Corman’s last ever picture “Frankenstein Unbound”. A true passion piece and one that Michael embraced with unyielding commitment and joy.

Finally, Michael portrayed a Record Executive mogul in the underwhelming indie feature “Limp” that despite its problems, aroused the attention of both Michael Douglas’ and Quentin Tarantino’s production companies with speculation of future projects in the offing.

Unfortunately, Michael’s untimely passing thwarted what may have led a promising acting career into a burgeoning one. What is known, Michael possessed a charisma, a stare and a glare amidst an inner drive and creativity to succeed and express. One can only imagine what more he could have achieved in this space.

Love and peace

Haydn & Bee

https://www.change.org/p/induct-inxs-into-the-rock-roll-hall-of-fame-2025

https://www.inxsaccessallareas.com/