Rock & Rule

Rock & Rule is a thrilling 1983 Canadian animated rock musical fantasy film that offers an unique blend of rock music and science fiction. Directed by Clive A. Smith, the film displays a rich cast including Don Francks, Paul Le Mat and Greg Salata, among others.

The movie is grounded in a post-apocalyptic universe, a world where human civilization has been wiped out, and evolution has spawned anthropomorphic creatures. These evolved beings inherit the Earth, with cities named "New York" and "Ohmtown", echoing the remnants of the human era.

Don Francks voices the movie's primary antagonist, an egotistical and extremely powerful rock star named Mok. Mok's character is fascinating as his elaborate design and eccentricities make him a memorable movie villain. Using a devilish combination of technology, sorcery, and rock and roll, Mok, who is a bit down on his luck as of late, forms an ominous plan to resurrect a monstrous being from another dimension to catapult him back into the limelight.

The movie's protagonists are the members of a small rock band from Ohmtown. Omar, voice acted by Paul Le Mat, is the rebellious, gruff band leader and Angel, voiced by Susan Roman, has a voice of an angel indeed. Their band also includes Dizzy and Stretch, who supply humor throughout the movie. They end up entangled in Mok’s diabolical scheme when he becomes intrigued by Angel's extraordinary voice, which he realizes is the last piece he needs to fulfill his sinister plan.

The compelling story line, combined with its gritty and stylish animation, offers a remarkably different experience than traditional animation films of that era. Furthermore, this film is renowned for its soundtrack. The film's creators obtained cooperation from various famous rock musicians of the time. Cheap Trick, Debbie Harry of Blondie, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop and Earth, Wind & Fire all provided songs, which were integrated perfectly with the storyline, making it a rock opera-esque experience.

The dark, dystopian landscape adds a moody ambiance throughout the film, creating a haunting, visually appealing, and immersive world that effortlessly interacts with the heart-thumping music and the dynamic characters. As the story unfolds, it delves into fundamental themes such as friendship, rivalry, ambition, love, desire, and the powerful influence of music, making it more than just an animated musical fantasy.

While being an experimental venture in fusing animation with rock music, Rock & Rule stands on its own merit for its storytelling and the profound themes it seeks to address. It’s not just a movie which has music in it but is a movie about music, making the tunes more impactful and an integral part of the storyline. It pays respect to the power and charm of rock and roll while creating a unique animated universe for its characters.

Elevating the viewing experience are the artists' voice performances. Don Francks depiction of Mok oozes with charisma and arrogance, creating a villain that the audience loves to hate. Paul Le Mat as Omar and Susan Roman as Angel portray the yin and yang of a youthful rock band, feeding into the pulsating narrative. Add in the comic relief supplied by the characters Dizzy and Stretch, and Rock & Rule delivers an all-round entertaining spectacle.

Targeted towards an adult audience, Rock & Rule is not your average wholesome family animation film. It's experimental, it's daring, and it's unapologetically rock 'n' roll. With an ageless appeal, this one’s a must-watch for any rock-music enthusiast or animation lover. From Mok’s audacious ambition to Omar and Angel’s unsuspecting heroism, the viewers are transported to a world where they feel every beat, live every emotion, and experience the resounding power of music, making Rock & Rule an underrated gem from the 80s animation scenes.