The Decline of Western Civilization is a documentary trilogy directed by Penelope Spheeris.
WHAT HAPPENS?
Director Penelope Spheeris documents the Los Angeles punk culture starting in 1981, then traces its metal evolution in the late 80’s before following a group of homeless teens in the 90s. The three documentaries capture the spirit of rebellion along with the desperate need for community.
ONE LINE REVIEW
The raw energy and hopeless despair of wayward youths is brilliantly chronicled.
THE ACTORS
The documentaries feature a series of punk kids answering open-ended questions. As the questions progress, the kids’ answers reveal more honesty about how their life situations connect to the music being profiled. It’s interesting to view the progression throughout the documentaries.
There’s a sense of anger and despair in the first installment, but also a youthful innocence that has seemingly vanished by the last of the series. The middle documentary focusing on metal bands is a bit of an anomaly – as successful, mainstream groups are featured, along with fans who don’t fit the punk profile.
Continue reading “The Decline of Western Civilization Parts I, II and III”