Watch Jimmy Barnes: Working Class Boy

Jimmy Barnes: Working Class Boy is an autobiographical film released in 2018 that follows the life of the Scottish-Australian rock singer, Jimmy Barnes. Directed by Mark Joffe, this movie uses Jimmy's own words and those of his family and friends to explore his early years and the personal struggles he faced before achieving musical success. The documentary includes thrilling archive footage and interviews with key figures in Jimmy's career.

The movie is divided into two parts: the first one, "Before the Big Time," delves deep into Barnes' early life in Glasgow, Scotland, and Adelaide, South Australia. In this part of the film, audiences learn about the poverty and trauma that shaped Jimmy's childhood. His father, Jim Duffy, was an alcoholic who would often abuse Jimmy's mother, Dorothy. The scenes of domestic violence, although unsettling, are essential to understand Jimmy's journey to becoming one of Australia's most beloved musicians. Despite these obstacles, Jimmy found comfort in music alongside his siblings, and he began to develop his signature vocal style.

Part two, "After the Big Time," covers Jimmy's years touring with the Australian band, Cold Chisel, and his subsequent solo career. Here we see a different side of Jimmy Barnes – the one who becomes adored by fans across the nation. As the movie goes on, we see how Jimmy's personal life collides with his professional accomplishments. He found his own path and eventually gained critical acclaim, but he began to fall victim to the pressures of fame and substance abuse.

Jimmy Barnes: Working Class Boy is a deeply personal documentary, punctuated by a mix of songs and home videos, which makes for compelling viewing. The film is not just about music and success; it's about a person's journey through years of trauma, abuse, and adversity. It shows how Jimmy turned the pain from his past experiences into art and how he uses his platform to raise awareness for young people in similar situations. It's an intimate portrait of a man who has lived a fascinating life.

In working-class Australia, Jimmy Barnes became a household name and an icon in the AU music industry. He has sold over 12 million records with Cold Chisel and his solo projects, and he developed a loyal following because of his captivating performances and his connection with his audience. He has received numerous accolades, including 24 ARIA Awards – Australia's equivalent of the Grammys – and an induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame twice.

Overall, Jimmy Barnes: Working Class Boy is a poignant and heartfelt film that tells the story of a musical icon's life in a unique way. The documentary is not just for existing fans, but for anyone who loves a good story. The film is a deep dive into the life of a working-class kid who became one of the biggest names in Australian music. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the music industry or just in life stories in general.