Hottoceame The Age of Commercialism

VividSimon Simply Perfect

Unlimitedia Sick Product of a Sick System

Erica Derrick By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.

tpaladino This isn't the worst movie ever made, but it certainly isn't worth all the praise I've read about it either. It's a good enough cult film I suppose, but even as such it's unremarkable in pretty much all aspects other than as a time capsule of early-80's teen/punk rock culture. Also, you get to see Diane Lane's underage boobs, which is also a plus. Not quite sure how they managed to pull that one off. Anyway... the story had a lot of potential to be compelling and provocative, and the premise was certainly ahead of it's time, but overall it still managed to fall flat. At no point do you truly feel involved, and there are a lot of points that just don't make much sense at all. Still, as a look into that particular era, it's worthwhile viewing. Also, teen boobs.

Woodyanders Fiery and insolent rebellious teenager Corinne "Third Degree" Burns (a wonderfully raw and dynamic portrayal by Diane Lane) is angry about the untimely death of her mother. So she convinces her reluctant sister Tracy (the cute Marin Kanter) and her equally surly cousin Jessica (Laura Dern at her most adorable) to form a rowdy all-female punk group called the Stains (who look and sound like an unholy cross between the Shaggs and the Runaways). Despite having no real musical talent, the Stains still manage to get a gig as part of a tour along with the past their prime metal band the Metal Corpses (they stink) and the snarly punk outfit the Looters (who seriously smoke!). The Stains become huge stars because of their skimpy stage outfits, outrageous two-tone skunk hairstyles, defiant attitude (their motto is "We don't put out"), and, most of all, extensive media coverage by opportunistic TV news anchorwoman Alicia Meeker (delightfully played with lip-smacking relish by Cynthia Sikes). However, their moment in the spotlight proves to be fleeting when their loyal audience of adolescent girl admirers known as Skunks realize they've been had and turn on the band at a disastrous concert.Director and noted music producer Lou Adler, working from a sharp and abrasive script by Nancy Dowd (who also wrote "Slap Shot"), offers a fiercely cynical and illuminating depiction of the more sordid aspects of the rock music business which include drug use (one member of the Metal Corpses dies of an overdose), performing in seedy dives, mindless consumerism, and especially how the media can either make or break a band. This film further benefits from excellent acting from a fine cast. Lane delivers a positively electrifying performance full of rage and passion that holds the whole picture together. Ray Winstone likewise shines as bitter and cranky, yet wise and knowing punk singer Billy, who tries to be a mentor for Corinne without much success. Christine Lahti only pops up in two scenes as Corinne's neurotic and regretful Aunt Linda, but makes a strong and lasting impression just the same. Special kudos are also in order for Barry Ford, who gives a marvelously engaging turn as laid-back and philosophical Jamaican bus driver Lawnboy. Plus there's nice support from David Clennon as sleazy agent Dave Robell, Fee Waybill as washed-up rocker Lou Corpse, John Lehne as smarmy newscaster Stu McGrath, and E.G. Daily as a perky hotel maid. Appearing as members of the Looters are erstwhile Sex Pistols Paul Cook and Steve Jones and Paul Simonon of the Clash. Horror scream queen Debbie Rochon makes her feature film debut an uncredited bit part as a Skunk. The gritty, yet polished cinematography by Bruce Surtees comes through with plenty of striking visuals and spot-on evocative shots of often dreary and grungy locations. A tad rough around the edges, but overall a really fun and rollicking blast of a movie.

taum yes, what I would give for that. I suppose it doesn't exist.Great tune "Professional" during the end credits. And who was actually performing this version? What is interesting is that I keep thinking of this movie having recently seen Prey for Rock and Roll where Gershon is simply the "It Girl" Rock-n-Roll Star. Starting with the Crissy Hinde sound but way throatier/garagier and adding in some Joan Jett attitude/leather and the result is fantastic! ...and also reminds me of Juliette Lewis performing in Strange Days. No surprise she now has a band....Picture Claire puts them both together, Lewis and Gershon, I forget who sings the credits...

lemmeupgradeu Ladies & Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains may not be the best film to come out of it's time.. but it certainly is not the worst. Many fans of this film probably know it best from when it aired on VH1 a few years back. Most "film buffs" probably have not even heard of it! It is a "fun" film, nothing too deep.. If you've ever considered yourself to be "punk rock" then you would probably enjoy this film. A few former Sex Pistols have roles in Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains. If you get a chance to see this movie I recommend it, but don't expect a masterpiece. It's just a film every post-punk should see. And always remember, The Stains do NOT put out!