Pennsylvania Hardcore

Pennsylvania Hardcore is a riveting 2014 documentary directed by Paul J. Bearer that delves deep into the dynamic and, at times, tumultuous world of the hardcore punk rock scene in Pennsylvania. The film features interviews with members of prominent bands who played a pivotal role in the foundation and evolution of the Pennsylvania hardcore community, including Animalhaus, Rosetta’s Michael Armine, and Mike Aulthouse.

The movie showcases the distinct nature of Pennsylvania's hardcore punk scene that began in the 1980s and evolved through the following decades. Here, the term 'Hardcore' is not only a genre of music but a lifestyle and form of expression adopted by a group of people who felt marginalized and disconnected from the mainstream culture. The narrative intertwines the past, present, and future, guiding the audience through an intoxicating blend of nostalgia, rebellion, and anticipation for what's to come.

Animalhaus, with members like Dave Heck, are represented in Pennsylvania Hardcore, painting a vivid picture of the Hardcore music scene of their era with heartening tales of camaraderie, electric performances, and poignant reflections on the impact their work has had within the genre. Michael Armine, the renowned vocalist of the post-metal band Rosetta, opens up in straightforward interviews, adding depth and gravity to the documentary with his insights and experiences.

Mike Aulthouse, the prominent figure of the 'Erie scene', is also spotlighted in the film. An integral part of Broken Up Today, Smoke and Mirrors, and Stand Up, Aulthouse discusses his journey through the hardcore scene and the impact it has had on his life. His story is particularly engaging as listeners gain insight into his unique perspective, fusing his experiences from both performing on stage and the view from the crowd.

The movie takes a captivating anthropological approach by walking the audience through the musical landscape of cities like Philadelphia, Erie, Pittsburgh, Wilkes Barre, and Harrisburg. It explores the cultural aesthetics, the visceral connection between performers and audience, and the vibrant youthful energy that pervades this dimension of music. Each city has its unique attitude and underlying ethos shaping the sound and spirit of the bands that originate there, thus forging an intriguing cultural episodic within Pennsylvania's hardcore scene.

While the movie deeply dives into the music, it also focuses on the integral role fans and the closely-knit community play in shaping the genre. Interviews from hardcore enthusiasts add a crucial layer to the narrative by showing the impact the genre has outside of its sonic offerings. They share how the music and the community shaped their identities, fostered a sense of belonging, and gave them a platform to channel their innermost emotions and frustrations.

One of the film's standout elements is how it captures the raw, indomitable energy of live performances. The grainy footage of mosh pits buzzing with movement, sweat, and primal screams creates an immersive experience for the viewers as they get a glimpse into the extraordinary ambiance at these shows. Record label owners, music journalists, local luminaries, and band members narrate their stories with impeccable honesty that manages to capture the heart and soul of the Pennsylvania hardcore.

Pennsylvania Hardcore doesn't shy away from addressing the genre's contentious issues either. It touches on the violence that sometimes accompanies hardcore shows, with heated debates on how these occurrences influence the scene's overall perception. Moreover, it discusses the presence and treatment of minority groups within the genre, encompassing race, gender, and sexual orientation—providing a holistic view into the multi-faceted world of hardcore punk music.

Essentially, Pennsylvania Hardcore serves as an invaluable historical document and atmospheric exploration of a particular subculture within a specific geographic context. The passion, dedication, and raw emotion that power the Pennsylvania hardcore scene reverberate throughout this documentary, creating an exhilarating journey for its viewers.

By the end of Pennsylvania Hardcore, the audience gains an intimate perspective into the hardcore punk rock scene - its spirit of defiance, the tight-knit community, the explosive performances, and the multilayered connections that bind them together. Far from being a casual tour, this movie is a deeply-engaged, thought-provoking voyage into the hard-hitting world of Pennsylvania's hardcore punk scene.