Watch Autoluminescent

Autoluminescent is a documentary film chronicling the life and career of one of Australia's most enigmatic and influential musicians, Rowland S. Howard. Directed by Richard Lowenstein and Lynn-Maree Milburn, the film offers an intimate portrait of Howard, who rose to fame as the guitarist of seminal post-punk band The Birthday Party before enjoying a cult following as a solo artist.

With interviews from friends, family, and collaborators – including Nick Cave, Lydia Lunch, Mick Harvey, and Thurston Moore – Autoluminescent paints a vivid picture of Howard's childhood, his early musical influences, and the evolution of his signature sound. But what sets the film apart is its use of Howard's own extensive archive of personal footage and interviews, which offer a rare glimpse into his creative process and personal life.

Throughout the film, Howard comes across as a complex and contradictory figure – at once shy and introspective, yet fiercely independent and uncompromising in his musical vision. His struggles with addiction and mental health are also explored, casting his musical output in a new light and highlighting the tremendous emotional weight that he carried throughout his life.

At its core, Autoluminescent is a celebration of Howard's unique musical legacy, and the profound impact that he had on the Australian music scene and beyond. From his early days playing in Melbourne's punk scene to his collaborations with Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, the film traces Howard's career from its beginnings to its untimely end in 2009 at the age of 50.

One of the film's most striking features is its use of atmospheric visual effects and evocative sound design, which serve to heighten the intensity of Howard's music and create a sense of immersion for the viewer. The film's soundtrack is a tour-de-force, featuring classic tracks from The Birthday Party and Howard's solo work, as well as never-before-seen recordings and demos.

Overall, Autoluminescent is a powerful and deeply moving tribute to one of Australia's most iconic musicians. By offering an intimate look into Howard's unique creative process and exploring the emotional and personal struggles that shaped his life, the film offers a fascinating insight into the mind of a true artistic visionary. Whether you're a fan of post-punk music or simply interested in the life of a true musical innovator, Autoluminescent is a must-see film that captures the spirit of Rowland S. Howard in all its raw, uncompromising glory.

Autoluminescent is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes.