Sutherland’s illustrious career spanned decades, with iconic roles in films like ‘Klute’ and ‘The Hunger Games’, cementing his legacy as a versatile and compelling actor. However, Sutherland also holds a special place in the hearts of Kate Bush fans for his unforgettable role in the video for her 1985 single, ‘Cloudbusting.’ This video, much like the song, was inspired by Peter Reich’s memoir, A Book of Dreams, which chronicles the life and experiments of his father, Austrian psychiatrist and philosopher Wilhelm Reich.
The ‘Cloudbusting’ video, directed by Monty Python alumnus Julian Doyle and conceptualised by Bush and Terry Gilliam, centres around Wilhelm Reich’s rainmaking machine and his subsequent arrest in 1956. Sutherland portrayed Reich, while Bush took on the role of his son, Peter, bringing a poignant father-son dynamic to life on screen.
Also Read: Kate Winslet And James Cameron Address Long-Standing Feud Rumours After ‘Titanic’
Bush envisioned the video as a short film rather than just a promotional clip. She wanted it to do justice to Reich’s story, a narrative that couldn’t be fully conveyed through the song alone. To achieve this cinematic quality, Bush sought out a great actor, and Sutherland was the perfect choice.
Sutherland recounted his meeting with Bush, who unexpectedly knocked on his door at the Savoy Hotel in London. He described the encounter with humour, noting how he looked down to see the petite and determined Kate Bush. This meeting led to a deep conversation about Reich, whose work Sutherland had already encountered during the filming of Bernardo Bertolucci’s Novecento. This connection made the role feel almost predestined to him.
In making ‘Cloudbusting’, Sutherland praised Bush’s creativity and vision. He vividly remembered key moments on set, including a scene where his character was taken away, leaving Bush’s character standing forlornly behind. Sutherland also fondly recalled advising Bush about smoking a joint on set, to which she humorously replied about her long-standing habit, further endearing her to him.
Bush, in turn, expressed gratitude for Sutherland’s support and encouragement during the shoot. She admired his ability to embody the father figure, making her feel like a child reacting to her parents. His presence and professionalism greatly contributed to the authenticity and emotional depth of the video, leaving a lasting impression on both Bush and her fans.
-Sushmita Sarkar