American Hardcore

Edgy, rough, raw and provocative, this revealing video survey of the punk-rock scene in the U.S. from 1980 to ’86 recalls a no-holds-barred genre that was “fast…loud, angry [and] unpredictable.” Included are raucous music clips and informative interviews with performers like Henry Rollins and Flea, as well as promoters and fans. Directed by Paul Rachman., The lost subculture of America’s rebellious, Reagan-era hardcore set is explored in filmmaker Paul Rachman’s cinematic adaptation of Steven Blush’s book. Disillusioned by politics, angered by greedy record labels, and bound together by a powerful antiestablishment sentiment, bands such as Minor Threat, Black Flag, Dead Kennedys, and Bad Brains paved the way for such later bands as Nirvana and Pearl Jam by fearlessly questioning — and frequently mocking — the status quo, and proving that you don’t need radio play to reach an audience. Whether working for a real change or simply attempting to shake things up in the music scene, these bands gave a voice to the legions of youthful fans who felt their opinions had been neglected in mainstream society. In this documentary, concert footage combines with interviews to offer a comprehensive look at the musical revolution that defined an era.