L7: Pretend We're Dead

L7: Pretend We’re Dead is a 2016 American documentary that consolidates the band's indelible mark on the history of rock music, feminist activism, and pop culture. Diligently directed by Sarah Price, the film walks through the engrossing journey of the band L7, an all-female punk rock band known for their aggressively melodic music, unapologetic attitude, and their legacy in the punk rock and grunge movement of the '80s and '90s. It stars band members Donita Sparks, Suzi Gardner, Jennifer Finch, and Demetra Plakas as they share their experiences wrapped up in punk rock glory.

Through archival footage, perfectly brisk editing, and in-depth interviews, L7: Pretend We're Dead outlines the band’s history from their genesis in the late '80s, their rise to fame in the '90s, and them facing the challenges leading to their dissolve in 2001. It allows viewers to explore the journey of these four women, how they cut through the noise in a male-dominated scene, and influenced generations to come with their distinctive style and strength.

One of the film's highlights is the abundant use of home-movie footage that showcases the narrative dynamics of a band living in the spotlight yet staying true to their underground spirit. It paints a vivid picture of L7's personality as a band - candid, raw, and effervescent, with a commendable dash of humor and irreverence. By navigating the band’s professional highs and lows, the film discloses many moments that made them punk rock icons, their crusade against sexism in the industry, their influence on the 'Riot Grrrl' movement and creation of the pro-choice benefit series 'Rock for Choice.'

Donita Sparks and Suzi Gardner, L7's co-founders, give candid interviews along with bandmates Jennifer Finch and Demetra Plakas. The film doesn’t shy away from shedding light on the bumps along the road, such as line-up changes, addiction struggles, and the eventual hiatus. The band’s compelling narrative is further elaborated on by various contemporaries and notable figures in the music industry, including Shirley Manson from Garbage, Krist Novoselic from Nirvana, and Louise Post from Veruca Salt, highlighting L7's influence and reception.

Additionally, the documentary benefits from an excellent soundtrack that effectively utilizes L7's discography, making it an auditory delight for fans. The wit and raw energy in songs like "Shove," "Fast and Frightening," "Pretend We're Dead," among others, are cleverly imbued in the narrative, amplifying the raucous spirit of the band.

L7: Pretend We're Dead serves as an honest and unfiltered snapshot of L7, covering their meteoric rise, influential career, and everything in between. This film is more than just a chronological timeline of the band’s career; it’s a brilliant depiction of how L7 were among the handful of bands who could perfectly merge heavy rock, punk ethos, and a pop sensibility without losing their distinctive edge.

At its heart, it is a tribute to the band's resilience and the firebrand ethos which made these ladies indispensable figures in the history of rock. L7: Pretend We're Dead not just personifies a vibrant tour of the past, it spotlights the influence L7 had, not just on the music scene but on feminism and women's role in the music industry.

Empowering, mischievous, and intense, "L7: Pretend We're Dead", is a must-watch for fans of Punk Rock or those simply looking to explore the genre's history. It brings humor and warmth to the turbulent nature of being in a band, retaining an engaging rhythm throughout whilst highlighting the seminal role of L7. Expect nostalgia, gritty performances, authentic portrayals, and a wild ride through the anarchic journey of one of rock's most formidable female bands. Donita Sparks, Suzi Gardner, Jennifer Finch, and Demetra Plakas are not just musicians, they are the exemplary icons that penetrated the punk rock ceiling and paved the way for generations of female rockers. This is their tale, raw and unfiltered.