For those who cherish their sleep, the scheduling of a nearly two-hour documentary on a Monday night might seem like a questionable decision. However, when the film in question tells the raw and powerful story of Australian rock icon Jimmy Barnes, it becomes an undeniable exception to the rule.
A Deep Dive into a Rock Legend's Life
The documentary, "Jimmy Barnes: Working Class Man," is set to air at 7:30 pm on a Monday on Channel Seven. Based on his two best-selling autobiographies, the film offers an intimate look into Barnes's challenging upbringing, his meteoric rise with the legendary band Cold Chisel, and his prolific solo career. While the core narrative will be familiar to dedicated fans, the presentation is fresh and compelling.
The storytelling is masterfully done, weaving together a rich tapestry of archival footage, candid interviews with family members, and electrifying live performances. This approach provides a multi-dimensional portrait of the artist, going beyond the stage persona to reveal the man behind the music.
Emotional Depth and Honest Revelations
Where the documentary truly shines is in its unflinching honesty. Barnes opens up on camera about his darkest moments, including how perilously close he came to taking his own life. These segments are profoundly moving and add a significant layer of depth to his public story, transforming the film from a simple career retrospective into a powerful narrative about survival and resilience.
It's this raw vulnerability that makes the film such essential viewing, justifying the decision to forgo an early bedtime on a school night.
More Must-See TV for Your Week
Beyond the Barnes documentary, the week offers another standout program for arts enthusiasts. "Portrait Artist of the Year" airs on Sundays at 8 pm on the ABC. This series takes the familiar competition format and applies it to the world of painting.
Each episode features three celebrities who sit for nine artists. The painters then race against the clock to create the best possible portrait. The judges select the best depiction of each celebrity and an overall weekly winner, who advances to the finals.
The ultimate prize is a major accolade: a commission to have their work displayed in the prestigious National Portrait Gallery in Canberra. The show is fascinating to watch as the portraits evolve, and the judges are notably direct and honest in their critiques, offering no false praise for works that miss the mark.
For those seeking grittier storytelling, SBS Viceland presents "What It Feels Like For A Girl" on Fridays at 11 pm. This dark comedy series, based on the memoir by Paris Lee, introduces us to Byron on New Year's Eve 2000. Stuck in a dull town and facing bullying at school and home, Byron's life takes a dramatic turn, leading to a journey of self-discovery. Given its mature themes, this series won't be for everyone, but it promises a unique and compelling narrative.
