Philip Dadson: Sonics from Scratch

Biographical documentary on experimental Kiwi artist Philip Dadson, whose creative endeavours into unknown worlds of sound is highly regarded in the fine art community. Co-directed by Simon Ogston (Sheen of Gold), the film tracks Dadson’s humble beginnings in Napier through to arguably his most well-known achievement: the founding of avant-garde orchestra From Scratch.

"Aided by the warm, laid-back presence of the subject himself, filmmakers Simon Ogston and Orlando Stewart craft a polished and comprehensive overview of Dadson’s life and work, roping in various academics, historians and even some of his scratch orchestra alumni to weigh in on his legacy. In examining the creative collision of Dadson’s insatiable curiosity and infectious energy with fellow members of his collective, the film explores an ethos of community and collaboration that’s quietly life-affirming.

"Featuring dynamic archival footage of From Scratch’s most iconic performances, this is a vivid portrait of creative ingenuity and a paean to the role of collectivism in realising great art. It all results in a call to arms persuasive enough to send audiences scrambling through their sheds and garages for potential makeshift instruments." (New Zealand International Film Festival)

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