The documentary can seem a bit self important at times, and it doesn't do much to solidify the greatness of any of these bands. Basically, the interviews are a lot of goofing off and spouting inanity at the camera. The live footage of The Germs is perhaps the best of the bunch, but most of it is of decent quality if not too short.
It captures the time and place pretty well. You get the sense that some of these people don't take themselves very seriously, and that others, probably take themselves too seriously. The interviews with the common punks around shows just how alienated and angry some of those people really were, how much they didn't fit in, and their reactions to the world around them.
It is a worthwhile documentary however. If anything it gives some perspective on the changes in the punk movement and shows how far it has progressed.
"Another State of Mind"
I’m a huge Social Distortion fan, and this film takes you on a true punk rock tour with the band during their formative years. You also get footage of Minor Threat, Youth Brigade, etc. This is what it’s really like on a punk rock tour- transportation problems, in fighting, squabbles, and a lot of cathartic live shows to get it all out of your system.
Some of the interviews are pretty silly, and if anything, this film is great for the visuals of a bunch of kids touring the country in a beat up school bus.
You also get to see Mike Ness writing and performing the classic "Another State of Mind", as well as, getting his insights on the importance of eye liner to his stage mystique. Funny, moving, and entertaining.
"Suburbia"
To me, this is the quintessential punk rock movie. Sure, it’s silly. But, punk rock in itself is half humor, half serious. Not only does this movie show what it’s like to be an alienated kid, but it also shows the struggle involved with being yourself in a world of alienated kids.
It's just been re-released on DVD, which makes it the perfect opportunity to own this great movie.
I've seen so many kids with "TR" brands it's not funny, and that's all from the impact of this film. If you haven't seen it, you need to check it out.
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