Kevin Tiller

As seems to be the becoming norm for a Thursday night, after work I went to Govinda’s to see a Films For Change film – this week was “Jason Becker – Not Dead Yet“. I left work approx 5.35pm and walked to Martin Place to catch a train one stop to King’s Cross for a 5 minute walk.

The year is 1989, and 19-year old Jason Becker from Richmond, California has just been offered the biggest rock guitar job on the planet. He’s on the cover of every guitar magazine and is being hailed by critics as a genius and the next greatest rock guitarist in the world. Jason’s childhood dream of making and performing music has come true. One week later, during an examination of his leg, Jason’s dream turned into a nightmare when he was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease and given just a few years to live. 23 years later, without the ability to move or to speak, Jason is alive and making music… with his eyes.

I liked the film. I had never heard of Jason Becker before and although I love music I am not really a fan of his heavy-ish metal style. However it was a fascinating film.

Afterwards was of course the great food at the restaurant and chatting with the other movie-goers, who are always an interesting bunch. I find it surprising that most weeks, it’s a different set of people with maybe only a few going most weeks. I then caught a train to Caringbah to meet Dawn, post-yoga, for a lift home. It’s like a nice peaceful time out from the week to lay back on the cushions and reflect on life.