The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead

Directed by Wes Orshoski and released in 2015, The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is a compelling documentary that examines one of the most underrated and pioneering bands in British punk history - The Damned. This immersive and thrilling journey features a combination of interviews, concert footage, and behind-the-scenes look at the band. The movie showcases a vast array of talent, including the appearances of Gaye Advert, Fred Armisen, and Roger Armstrong, which brings the rich history of punk rock and The Damned vividly to life.

The Damned, known for being the first British punk band to release a single, an album and tour the United States, has often been overshadowed by the more commercially successful Sex Pistols and The Clash. However, this documentary aims to set the record straight and reintroduce audiences to the rebellious spirit and unique legacy of this extraordinary band.

The film sets forth with an array of interviews from key band members, including the harsh yet charismatic vocalist Dave Vanian and the unpredictable and energetic guitarist Captain Sensible. It delves into the band's rich history, their early struggles, their innovative music style, and the rollercoaster of fame. Concurrently, it provides a lens into the punk rock movement of the 1970s and its rich culture.

The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead offers a unique look at the dynamics within the band. It doesn't skimp on showing the raw reality of friendships, rivalries, and then some. It also pulls back the curtain on the perils of the music industry, with all its chaotic tours, and ill-disciplined recording sessions.

The documentary gloriously captures the band's extraordinary history with recordings of their live performances that span over their 35-year career. The vigorous and electrifying performances packed with the band's energy and ethos reveal why The Damned was revolutionary. It also houses some fascinating footage, the authenticity of which paints a fascinating picture of the punk scene and the music industry.

A cast of colorful characters, including Gaye Advert, a punk icon in her right, Fred Armisen, an American actor, comedian, and musician, known for his affiliation with punk rock music, and Roger Armstrong, a pivotal figure in British music history, graces the project, sharing stories and insights that shed further light on the scene and the band.

However, The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is not just another documentary about a rock and roll band. It is an exploration in itself of the cultural phenomenon known as punk rock. The film seamlessly interweaves the band's individual journeys with the evolution and impact of the punk movement as a whole.

Orshoski’s storytelling offers a potent blend of nostalgia, chaos, humor, and melancholy that acts as a magnet. Amidst the stories of sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll, the film manages to tug at your heartstrings by exploring the human aspect of the members. It showcases the countless upheavals, the ego clashes, and the constant struggle to maintain relevance in an ever-changing music landscape. The candid interviews reveal the harsh realities shadowed by fame while topping it off with their dry humor.

The documentary's unflinching honesty is perhaps one of its most compelling aspects. Through a multitude of perspectives, poignant commentary, and often humorous anecdotes, it lays bare the highs and lows of a band that never quite made it into the mainstream consciousness, but nevertheless carved a unique path and left an indelible impact.

To sum up, The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is an excellent depiction of not only the band's tumultuous journey but also the greater context of punk culture. The film excels in its balance, combining a rich assortment of archival material with contemporary interviews and performances. It is a must-watch for fans of The Damned, aficionados of punk, or those seeking to understand the influence and legacy of this radical cultural movement. The journey through the back alleys of punk's past is a ride well worth taking.

The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead encapsulates the wild ride that is the existence of The Damned, an overlooked yet essential part of the punk rock wave of the late 70s. It successfully paints a multi-dimensional picture of the chaotic, yet fiercely alive world of The Damned, making it a must-see for both punk enthusiasts and general music lovers alike. Delving beyond the music, the documentary offers a captivating view of a band that refused to conform, creating an unforgettable and influential legacy in the process.