Nick L’Barrow - Nick’s Flicks Fix
Nick L'Barrow with Talk To Me Directors Danny & Michael Philippou
Nick L’Barrow, the voice behind Nick’s Flicks Fix, is no stranger to the limelight of Australian film criticism. From hosting panels at prestigious festivals to crafting reviews that movie buffs devour, Nick’s journey through the world of film media is a testament to passion colliding with opportunity. In a recent conversation with Pario, Nick sheds light on how creativity intersects with the evolving landscape of film and physical media.
The Magic of the Video Store Era
“Working at a video store was the best job I’ve ever had and probably will ever have,” Nick recalled. For him, these stores were not just workplaces but sanctuaries for budding cinephiles. As a teenager surrounded by DVDs, he absorbed movies handpicked by colleagues, nurturing his love for storytelling.
Nick reminisced about those formative days, filled with quirky moments like impromptu games of cricket in the aisles and indulging in behind-the-scenes featurettes. These experiences fostered his understanding of movies beyond the screen, “You’d not only watch the movie but delve into the extras, the director’s commentary, the bloopers.”
But nostalgia isn’t the only lens Nick uses. He expressed concerns about how modern streaming algorithms fall short of replicating the tailored recommendations video store staff once provided. “Algorithms are a mix of what you’ve watched and what they want you to watch,” he said, calling for a resurgence of boutique video stores to preserve that personalised touch.
The Allure of Storytelling Through Reviews
Nick’s foray into film critique started as an experiment on Instagram with 60-second reviews. “It was after a breakup, one of those ‘reinvent yourself’ moments,” he explained. What began as concise takes on films quickly evolved into a platform for thoughtful engagement with the cinematic community.
“I’ve always preferred talking to writing. The back-and-forth of conversations lets you explore nuances,” Nick said, highlighting how his reviews and interviews attempt to go beyond surface-level questions. “I strive to ask questions that make directors and actors pause, like, ‘Oh, that’s a good question.’ Those moments of genuine connection are everything.”
Despite the glamour of interviewing the likes of Michael Bay and Viggo Mortensen, Nick emphasised the challenges that come with the gig. Watching multiple films, researching references, and crafting insightful commentary demand more than just passion - it’s about consistency and respecting deadlines. “This is more than free movies; it’s about earning your seat at the table,” he asserted.
Balancing Art and Audience
Nick’s views on filmmaking extend to a broader discussion on creativity in media. While he once dabbled in scriptwriting and short films, he found a different calling in film criticism. “Making movies took some of the magic away for me. I respect the craft more now that I’ve stepped back from creating to focus on consuming and analysing film,” he said.
His love for the tangible aspects of movies remains unwavering. “Physical media is irreplaceable. Behind-the-scenes features and director’s commentaries deepen your appreciation for the art form,” Nick shared. For him, the best stories are those that allow audiences to connect emotionally, regardless of the genre.
Looking ahead, Nick expressed excitement for new films like 28 Years Later and Wolfman, hinting at his continued commitment to exploring cinema’s evolving narratives.
For Nick L’Barrow, the reel will always keep spinning, sparking curiosity, connection, and endless stories to share.
Follow Nick L’Barrow’s creative journey on social media at: @nicksflicksfix
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