A truly wonderful man. I only got to know him more in the later years, if only i wasn't such a teenager when i first met him. Such a knowledgeable, funny talented person. He'll be missed. If Freo can't have a good year i sure hope his beloved Geelong Cats can have another great year.
John was uniquely talented, and the brilliance of his very varied films was also present in his personality. He had great insight, was capable of very concentrated and subtle work, but was an unusually generous, relaxed and convivial person, with an openness to experience and a muted but discerning sense of humour. Through his life in Bali and his continuing dedication to Indonesia he created his own life as he wanted to - in a way few individuals do. Now with the more negative images of Indonesia in the Australian media, and the decline in the demand for the teaching of the Indonesian language in Australia, his films assume a new importance. He - and what he could do - will be sorely missed.
I loved Johnny from the day we met. I have shown his films from New York to Perth. I have been inspired by him for 20 years. As I sit tonight in Mexico City, my eyes are justly laden with tears for a truly wonderful person
John, your smile, your laugh, your warmth, your sense of humour, always a reminder not to take ourselves too seriously, your humanity. Although I haven't seen you in some time, I'll always remember you
He who has gone, so we but cherish his memory, abides with us, more potent, nay, more present than the living man. ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupéry The short time we shared will hold some of our happiest memories. Rest in peace, Aurevoir, until we meet again.