PICK OF THE WEEK: Ladies & Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains

A feminist punk rock cinema classic

In 1982, a teen musical drama directed by Lou Adler was released, starring Diane Lane, Laura Dern and Marin Kanter, about three friends who start a punk rock band.

The Stains represent the archetypal feminist/riot grrrl punk band (years before that phrase was coined) conquering a male-dominated industry with a commitment to fostering a dedicated fanbase of young disenfranchised female fans.

The film wasn’t considered a commercial success at the time, but has taken on legendary status among lovers of indie cinema, feminism and punk rock, with admirers like Natasha Lyonne, Chloe Sevingy and Kathleen Hanna.

Screenwriter Caroline Coon said:

“It realistically depicts a slice of teen girls’ lives, the struggles they face, the sexism they deal with, and features a do-it-yourself, underdog heroine who ends up mobilising young, disaffected women to speak out and create their own community and culture. I think this resonates with many marginalised people who understand the necessity of being seen and heard and having to do it themselves, to stand up against all odds to represent themselves, create community and be an example for others, even though it’s a rough road and there’s not necessarily a happy ending.”

Here is the trailer. Seek out this movie on Amazon Prime or Apple TV.