Vicious Lips

Vicious Lips, released in 1986, is an exciting science fiction cult classic directed by Albert Pyun. The film stars Dru-Anne Perry, Gina Calabrese, and Linda Kerridge. This neon-infused, musical dream of a film, set amidst the distant reaches of outer space, meshes together the genres of sci-fi, music, and horror to provide a unique cinematic experience that is sure to stay with the audience after the credits roll.

The film is set in an alternative future where inter-galactic travel is a regular part of life and follows the career tumults of an all-girl intergalactic band christened Vicious Lips. Perry takes the lead role as the sassy, no-nonsense manager, Maxine, whose ambitions drive the band's narrative. Calabrese, acting as the sweet and gifted newcomer, Judy Jetson, provides the film with its emotional core, while Kerridge plays a supporting role that consolidates the bands' dynamics.

As the story unfolds, the band, Vicious Lips, deals with the unexpected death of their lead singer. However, Maxine, not wanting to miss the opportunity of a lifetime, spots the talented Judy Jetson performing at a high school talent show and recruits her as the band's new vocalist. Thus begins a wild interstellar quest as the band members, along with their new talented but naive lead singer, attempt to make it to their breakthrough gig at the hottest joint in the galaxy - the Radioactive Dream nightclub.

As Vicious Lips hurtle through space in an unrestrained space bus, each member of the band must come to terms with their personal and professional crises. The film beautifully weaves in moments of tension, drama, and unmarred humanity amid their frenzied efforts to make it big in the music industry. With the challenge of making it to the gig while mentoring their fresh-faced singer, the band experiences a collection of surreal and hilarious adventures.

Vicious Lips layers its narrative with unique world-building, shifting dynamics, and a script that's sharp, humorous, and quirkily profound. For an 80s movie, Vicious Lips touches upon issues like gender dynamics, ambition, and camaraderie, creating characters that bear an impressive depth and personality.

Under the experienced eye of Albert Pyun, the film exudes an energetic punk style mixed with B-movie sci-fi vibes, with the music playing an integral role in moving the plot forward and underlining the dramatic moments. The band's performances echo a somewhat eerie, ethereal resonance, providing the perfect accompaniment to the film's aesthetic. With an air of unpredictability and frenetic energy that mirrors the essence of the punk rock band it portrays, the film imbues every scene with a sense of urgency and purpose, giving audiences an engaging ride.

However, Vicious Lips is not just about the music. The film's undeniable strength lies in its character development and the relationships between the characters. The members of the band, all women, are strong and complex characters, more than holding their own in a male-dominated industry while dealing with personal conflicts.

Perry's performance as Maxine brings the essence of a gritty, relentless, and fiercely ambitious woman to life, even as she battles her inner demons. Calabrese, as Judy, provides an innocent contrast to the hard-edged Maxine, showcasing her journey from a sheltered high-schooler to a confident lead singer. Kerridge and the rest of the cast round up the dynamics with their noteworthy performances, amplifying the film’s lively and raucous atmosphere.

In its essence, Vicious Lips is a creative merging of familiar elements from various cinema styles into an original and interesting narrative. It balances its darker science fiction and horror elements with humor, resulting in a heady mix of action, drama, and music. The film's unique brand of chaos, coupled with its poignant exploration of ambition and personal growth, leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. It appropriately features all the dramatic flair, loud music, and timeless themes that period cinema was known for, while still very much being its own beast.

Overall, Vicious Lips is a lively, thrilling, and emotional journey that explores the trials and tribulations of an all-girl band from outer space, attempting to make it big time. Filled with enthralling performances, a pulsating original score, and completely set in a neon drenched space, Vicious Lips is a cult classic that deserves to be seen for its atmosphere, characters, and unique take on the sci-fi genre.