Birth of a Car (c1948)

Synopsis

This documentary, most likely produced by or commissioned by Holden, proudly details the planning, testing and production of the first locally manufactured Holden model sedan developed to suit Australian conditions.

Curator’s notes

We all know how the jingle goes – football, meat pies, kangaroos and Holden cars. The Holden car has become enshrined in Australian culture, and holds the sentimental tag as the first all-Australian car. But while many Australians still feel a great affection for the Holden car, it is probably difficult to imagine the anticipation and pride associated with the manufacture and release of the first model of Holden sedan (the 48–215 or FX) in 1948. This promotional documentary provides an insight into some of this significance.

Birth of a Car begins and ends on Australia’s roads. The Holden was designed specifically for Australian conditions and to meet Australian drivers’ needs. It was manufactured locally on the production lines at Fisherman’s Bend in Victoria and Woodville, South Australia. The emphasis on local production and consumption is mentioned in the opening seconds of the documentary and continues as a strong theme throughout.

The scenes inside the manufacturing plants highlight both the craftsmanship and technical precision needed to produce the car, as well as the 9,000 jobs which the car’s production will support. The car itself is promoted for its speed, comfort, high mileage, reliability and Australian design.

The National Film and Sound Archive holds a number of film prints of Birth of a Car in its collection, deposited by private sources. As a collecting institution, it acquires audiovisual and associated material (both solicited and unsolicited) from a range of sources including large organisations, cultural institutions, collectors and private sources like the members of the public and film lovers.

Lauren Williams, curator

Original aspect ratio: 1.37:1 (Academy)