Once you "get with Stone", you get into solid movie action and entertainment. And for a couple of hours you'll know what it's like to ride with the bikies and live their life. "STONE" is the baby of one man in particular - Sandy Harbutt - Producer, Director, Writer and Star. It's been his project for the past four years. The story starts in Sydney's colourful Domain Park, where a political rally is under way and a crowd is gathered to listen to one of the country's national political figures speak out against pollution. Into the scene ride The Gravediggers - the toughest bunch of bikies since Hell's Angels - stoned, drunk and generally having a good time. One of the gang, Toad, who is on a bad trip, witnesses a gunman assassinate the politician. Chaos reigns. The Gravediggers, naturally, get out quickly. But their presence hasn't gone unnoticed and the next few sequences depict the gruesome murders of three of their members. The police connect the assassination and the bikies murders and send in one of their own men - a hip drug squad cop called Stone - to join the Gravediggers. The ensuing part of the film gets to the heart of what it is really all about as Stone gets a fascinating insight into their way of life and their motives for reacting so strongly against society. The Gravediggers are made up of real bikies and actors and actresses who were chosen for their particular ability to get into the film and live like bikies for the duration of location filming. They had to wear filthy denims, not wash for six weeks and ride the unbelievable Kawasaki 900'g.
The cast is excellent. As Stone, Ken Shorter brings a quality of sensitivity to the part as his feelings for the gang and its principles evolve. Gang member, Toad is played by British actor Hugh Keays-Byrne who stayed in Australia after a tour with the Royal Shakespeare Company. It's a superb performance. Vincent Gil plays Dr. Death, The gang's Satanistic spiritual leader - a complex character with an over-riding death wish. As Undertaker, the gang's leader, Sandy Harbutt's performance is tough and controlled. The bikies' molls are by necessity slack and scruffy, but still (in the words of the producer) "horny as hell". Rebecca Gilling plays Vanessa, the beautiful ex-model girlfriend of Undertaker. Tiny Sue Lloyd plays Tart, Ros Talamini plays Sunshine and Victoria Anoux plays Flossie. A striking contrast is contributed by Stone's girlfriend Amanda, very much a society minded young woman totally opposed to Stone's involvement with the Gravediggers. Helen Morse plays her beautifully. Supporting performances from actors like Slim Degrey, Ray Bennett, Owen Weingott, Garry MacDonald, Terry Bader and Lachlan Jamieson make up the remainder of the strong cast. "STONE" was shot on location in Sydney with the exception of several fantastic bike scenes which were shot on the Gosford expressway and the closing shot near Dubbo, NSW.
Probably the most breathtaking sequence is the funeral procession near the film's opening in which 400 real bikies took part. In fact, bikies from several of Sydney's top groups - Hells Angels, The Lone Wolf and The Black Hawks - were featured in a number of scenes to which they gave their full support.The music score was written by Melbourne composer/guitarist, Billy Green. The two vocals "Cosmic Flash" and "Rage" were sung by Doug Parkinson and released, with the rest of the music, on a soundtrack LP by WEA records. Other deserving credits in the film must go to the Executive Producer, David Hannay, who has been involved with the film since it was first written nearly four years ago; the cinematographer Graham Lind; the sound recordist Cliff Curll and the editor Ian Barry. "STONE' was made by Hedon Productions and is released in Australia by BEF (Film Distributors).
When Sandy Harbutt wrote the screenplay for the feature film "STONE", he had no idea of the problems and pleasures he would face during the location filming. Sydney was the chosen location, and Sandy picked some unusual places to shoot, including some deserted Army battlements on the foreshores of Sydney Harbour. The cave-like complex was the bikies hideout and the Army gave full cooperation and assistance to the film crew - letting them have full use of the area. One of the main hassles was getting the battalion of Kawasaki 900's through the catacombs into the centre of the battlements, then bringing them out again repeatedly for different shots. The riders had to remember to turn their machines off inside the caves, or the fumes would have overcome them. During the hideout scenes the rain poured heavily and on one occasion the cast and crew filmed continuously for 24 hours in the close and steamy atmosphere of the underground dugout. The stunt scenes, of course, were always tricky - and one in particular sticks in Sandy's mind. The script called for a bike rider to be pushed from the road and off a sheer cliff into the sea. Stuntman Peter Armstrong chose a 75-foot cliff at Maroubra Beach and assured Sandy that he would be able to do the stunt with ease. On the day, the four cameras were set in place, a ramp built leading up to the cliff and every safety precaution taken. A large crowd of disbelieving onlookers gathered to see Peter Armstrong dive to what would appear to be certain death. The stunt was executed perfectly, and in doing so Peter set a new world record for cliff falling on a bike. One of the film's most picturesque scenes was shot in a cemetery on Sydney's North Shore. At the time of the filming the entire graveyard was massed with yellow daisies, adding that certain something for the art director. The major scene filmed in the cemetery was the ceremonial burial of one of the bikies - and crew members helped to dig a six-foot-by-three foot vertical hole for the occasion. The Grave Diggers always bury their men standing up.
Sandy Harbutt.
Sydney-born Sandy Harbutt can be described as an artistic battler, who will fight to the death to defend his creative beliefs. Born in Randwick, Sandy received general public school education, he was sent to an opportunity school and later to Sydney Boys' High. He entered Sydney University to study Law, but quickly realised it wasn't his scene - left and went into advertising. By the age of 24 he was one of Sydney's top agency directors, winning the New York Art Directors Award for one of his commercials. But despite the success of his advertising career, Sandy decided to drop out in favor of acting: a more creative art form. He joined the Ensemble Theatre (where he met Ken Shorter) then moved into television, where he had a regular role in the police drama "The long Arm". He worked consistently in various productions, including dramas for Crawford Productions and the feature film "Color Me Dead".In 1970 he wrote "STONE" and tried to interest people in it as a feature production. At that time there were little or no films being produced in Australia and he had problems convincing people of its merit. Last year he approached the Australian Film Development Corporation who decided to invest in the film.Sandy has worked tirelessly from that moment to ensure that "STONE" would be the most outstanding movie yet made in Australia. His credits on the film include those of Producer, Director, Production Designer, Actor, Writer and Lyricist (he composed the words for Cosmic Flash - one of the two vocal tracks in the film).
Ken Shorter.
" STONE" marks the turning point in the career of Ken Shorter, who for years has been trying to escape the television image of " You Can't See Around Corners". A former policeman, Ken became involved in acting through his association with the Police Boys' Club and he approached Hayes Gordon of the Ensemble Theatre for some formal training. Ken's stay with the Ensemble was successful and was shortly followed by the lead role in the Seven Network's "Corners"-which was regarded as one of the most controversial dramas of its day. The series was followed by a feature movie, in which Ken also starred. Ken worked regularly during the next few years in the Sydney/Melbourne acting scene; doing everything from Crawford Productions to the feature film "Ned Kelly". He also appeared in a successful season at Sydney's Old Tote Theatre. Twelve months ago Ken left Australia for Britain, where he toured with the Prospect Theatre Company throughout Europe for one season. He returned from Britain to star in "STONE", and during his visit home he has also appeared in a drama for the ABC. Personally, Ken is a totally involved person, who is committed to whatever work he's doing. He is something of a health fanatic: non-drinking, non-smoking. His involvement in his work can be illustrated by his behaviour during the making of "Ned Kelly", when he rejected the comfort of a hotel room and slept in the open to recreate the atmosphere of the film. Ken has now returned to Britain to continue working there for some time.
Helen Morse. Since Helen Morse graduated from N.I.D.A. several years ago, she has been one of Australia's most "in work" actresses. The reason that she is so much in demand is obvious; her talent may only be exceeded by her beauty. Helen has worked extensively on the stage - with the Old Tote, Nimrod and Melbourne Theatre Companies. She has worked on several films - as well as television work for Crawfords and Sydney Production companies. Her most recent television success was "Marion"- a four part period drama for the ABC. In "STONE" she plays the role of Amanda - the beautiful and headstrong girlfriend of Stone.
Hugh Keays-Byrne.
Hugh Keays-Byrne was born into a traditional English military family, educated at a top public school and Sandhurst Military College. But Hugh was the drop- out member of the family and decided that army life was not for him. His alternative career was acting. Hugh's resonant voice and imposing personality led him into the classics, and for several years he toured Europe and America with the famed Royal Shakespeare Company. When the Company toured Australia last year, Hugh was so taken by the place that he decided to stay for a while - working and seeing the country. He was offered the role of Toad in "STONE" - a part for which he is ideally suited. Hugh returned to England for Christmas - finalised his business there and is now living indefinitely in Australia.
Vincent Gil.
Sydney actor, Vincent Gil is well known for his performance in the lead role of Wayne Small in the television series "The Battlers" as well as for his many memorable performances in numerous episodes of the various Crawford Productions. In "STONE", Vincent plays Doctor Death, the spiritual leader of The Grave Diggers.
Roger Ward. Roger Ward originally hails from Adelaide and is the "gentle giant" of Australian film and television. He has appeared in numerous Australian film productions, including "It Takes All Kinds", "Adam's Woman" and "Squeeze A Flower". Inveterate Crawford Productions watchers know him as a very regular "heavy". Roger plays Hooks, the gang perv in "STONE". His most recent credits include his hilarious performance as the father of the groom in the long-running success "Dimboola" and a three month stint as guest lead actor at the Theatre Royal, Hobart.
James H. Bowles.
Red-headed James H. Bowles gave up his motorbike to become an actor. "STONE" gave him the opportunity to ride a big bike once again in his role as Stinky, the "Phantom" comic freak member of The Grave Diggers. James is remembered for his many fine dramatic and comedy performances in television and theatre including his memorable performance in the Old Tote's production of "Don's Party".
Slim Degrey.
English-born Slim Degrey started his career in showbusiness in Changi Prison Camp during the Second World War where he wrote, directed and appeared in numerous comedy productions in an endeavour to raise the morale of his fellow prisoners and himself. Feature films in which Slim has appeared include: "They're A Weird Mob", "You Can't See Round Corners", "The Demonstrator", "Age Of Consent" and "Wake In Fright". Slim plays Inspector Hannigan in "STONE", Stone's (Ken Shorter) superior officer.
Dewey Hungerford. Texan Dewey Hungerford first came to Australia as manager of Ty Hardin Motorcycles which his brother established while playing the lead in the Australian produced series "Riptide". His love of Australia decided him on staying and he now lives in Avalon and can often be found at the snooker table of the local RSL. Dewey plays Septic, the oldest bikie in "STONE". "STONE" is his second film. His first being "Waiting For Lucas", the film directed and produced by Ian Barry, Film Editor on "STONE".
Bindi Williams.
Aboriginal actor Bindi Williams made a name for himself as an actor when he starred in the top-rating television series "Woobinda - Animal Doctor". His involvement in acting came from his father who worked as a crew member and extra on several productions. Bindi plays Captain Midnight in "STONE" - the rebel aboriginal member of the bikie gang. Bindi currently can't be contacted, but was last heard of when the diff. dropped out of his car near Gilgandra.
John Ifkovitch. John Ifkovitch plays the role of Zonk in "STONE". He has appeared in the Old Tote's Production of "The Merchant of Venice" and was a member of Rex Cramphorne's company at the St. Martins Theatre, Melbourne. John was one of the leads in Jim Sharman's film, "Shirley Thompson versus The Aliens".
The Bikies' Molls.
REBECCA GILLING is "Vanessa" an ex-model, and girlfriend of the leader of The Grave Diggers, Undertaker. SUSAN LLOYD is "Tart" and has recently been seen by Sydney audiences in the hilarious comedy "Dimboola". ROSALIND TALAMINI is "Sunshine". JANE GILLING is "Euridyce". VICTORIA ANOUX is "Flossie", who features in a hilarious game of strip poker in "STONE". EVA IFKOVICH is "Tiger", JULIE EDWARDS is "Karma", KARYN LOVE is "Skunk", JUDE MATTHEWS is "Blue", DEBORAH FORMAN is "Bud", MARGARET URE is "Jay" and was also Assistant Wardrobe Mistress on "STONE".
David Hannay. "STONE" 'S Executive Producer, David Hannay has been a film and television production executive for the past six years. He was previously associated with Sandy Harbutt as associate producer on the Channel 9 network documentary, "Jesus Christ Superstar", which Sandy wrote and directed. Prior to becoming a production executive David was variously: merchant seaman, stockman, trade union official, politician and actor.
Graham Lind.
Director of Photography, Graham Lind caps a distinguished career as a cameraman with his stunning cinematography for "STONE". IAN BARRY "STONE"'s Film Editor, Ian Barry was previously a film editor and assistant director at the ABC. With the assistance of the Experimental Film Fund he wrote, produced and directed the highly regarded "Waiting For Lucas".
Billy Green.
Melbourne composer/guitarist, Billy Green has written and produced for "STONE" the most exciting and original music score ever composed in Australia. Billy is regarded as the country's top session guitarist and has backed most of Australia's well-known artists on record at one time or another. He is also responsible for the composition and production of the big hits "Without You" 8 on and "Baby Blue Eyes" by Doug Parkinson's "In Focus". "STONE" reunites him musically with Doug Parkinson in the two fantastic vocal numbers "Cosmic Flash" and "Rage". Billy also plays "69", one of the bikies in "STONE".
Michael Robinson.
Michael Robinson really wanted to write ever since he could. He first started earning from it in advertising in 1965 and still does. He has written everything from Vogue articles to animated I.V. cartoons, songs, children's books and comic books. "STONE" was with Sandy Harbutt! He works from an old suburban house in Sydney, alternately listening to rock and riding one of his motor bikes. He is Pinball in "STONE".
Cast (In order of appearance).
Doctor Townes - Deryck Barnes
Undertaker - Sandy Harbutt
Toad - Hugh Keays-Byrne
Ballini - Lex Mitchell
Hooks - Roger Ward
Vanessa - Rebecca Gilling
Tart - Susan Lloyd
Stinkfinger - James H. Bowles
Midnight - Bindi Williams
Sunshine - Rosalind Talamini
Doctor Death - Vincent Gil
Euridyce - Jane Gilling
Septic - Dewey Hungerford
Flossie - Victoria Anoux
Zonk - John Ifkovitch
Tiger - Eva Ifkovitch
69 - Billy Green
Karma - Julie Edwards
Pinball - Michael Robinson
Ferret - Peter King
Skunk - Karyn Love
Buzzard - Barry Butler
Blue - Jude Matthews
Scrag - Neville Overall
Bud - Deborah Forman
Bad Max - Jim Walsh
Jay - Margaret Ure
Go Down - Bruce Mcpherson
Boots - David Bracks
Whore - Ros Spiers
The Chairman - Rhod Walker
Hannigan - Slim Degrey
Larsen - Ray Bennett
Caretaker - Harry Lawrence
Lola - Leonora Cornall
Adler - Owen Weingott
Stone - Ken Shorter
Barman - Bill Hunter
Biggie - Ron Ross
Amanda - Helen Morse
Alistair - Patrick Ward
Chappie - Michael Kent
Photographer - Charles Stringer
Mechanic - Garry Mcdonald
Hamburger - Terry Bader
Hip - Lachlan Jamieson
Fred - Drew Forsythe
Ted - Fred Shaw
Birdman - Tony Allyn
Solicitor - Reg Evans.
Supporting.
Barbara Mason
Anne Mitchell
Annie Nalian
James C. Steele
Terry Horsley
Barry Purchase
Gerry Gorsler
Dee Jones
John Patterson
Ruth Erica
Wendy- Anne Hare
Marilyn Lee Mitchell
Louise Gormley
David Hannay
Herb Nelson
Pat Rooney
Rangi Nicholls
Norman Squires
Dave Hart
Ron Polson
Max Palmer
Geoffrey Graham
Richard Tucker
Roy Corbett
George Beddows
Robert Eagen
Ron Crews.
Credits.
Produced And Directed - Sandy Harbutt
By Music Composed And Produced By - Billy Green
Executive Producer - David Hannay
Editor - Ian Barry
Director Of Photography - Graham Lind
Screnplay By - Sandy Harbutt and Michael Robinson
Stunt Co-Ordinator - Peter Armstrong
Stunt Sequences - Peter Armstrong
Stunt Riders (Stunt Team) - Hamish Cameron, Craig Brown and Brian Martin