Derek and Clive Get the Horn (1979)

While not a film in the traditional sense, *Derek and Clive Get the Horn (1979)* perfectly embodies the raw, visual energy that Russell Mulcahy would later become known for. This documentary, capturing the legendary comedic chaos of Peter Cook and Dudley Moore as they record their explicit and hilarious audio albums, isn't just a passive observation. Mulcahy, in his early career, skillfully manipulates the footage, mirroring the frenetic pace and improvisational spirit of Cook and Moore. He employs dynamic editing, close-ups that capture every mischievous glance and profanity-laced outburst, and a visceral, almost punk rock sensibility that aligns perfectly with the album's anarchic humor. The film's raw, unpolished aesthetic foreshadows Mulcahy's later music video work and his penchant for vibrant visuals. The immediacy and energy of *Derek and Clive Get the Horn* demonstrate Mulcahy's unique ability to translate the visceral impact of sound and performance into a compelling visual experience. The film's very existence, capturing the improvisational brilliance of Cook and Moore at their peak, showcases the director's ability to harness a particular energy and translate it onto the screen – a talent that would define many of his subsequent feature films.