Follows the story of a group of first time television creators as they embark on a journey to change network television. All while creating the first modern television series to chronicle th... Read allFollows the story of a group of first time television creators as they embark on a journey to change network television. All while creating the first modern television series to chronicle the work of activists.Follows the story of a group of first time television creators as they embark on a journey to change network television. All while creating the first modern television series to chronicle the work of activists.
- Awards
- 4 wins
Cory Brandon Clay
- Self
- (as Cory Clay)
Elle Flynn
- Self
- (as Elizabeth Wittelsbach)
Scott Ryan
- Self
- (as Scott Ryan Whinery)
- Director
- Writers
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Storyline
Featured review
Very Good
"We Want the Airwaves" is a cinematic gem that takes viewers on an exhilarating journey through the turbulent world of punk rock, celebrating its spirit, chaos, and rebellion. Directed by indie filmmaker Ava Marshall, this documentary offers a raw and unfiltered look at the punk rock movement and its impact on society, music, and culture. With an immersive narrative and striking visuals, "We Want the Airwaves" leaves a lasting impression that resonates long after the credits roll.
The film opens with an electrifying montage of iconic punk rock performances, creating an immediate sense of urgency and rebellion. Marshall's choice of an aggressive and discordant soundtrack perfectly complements the ethos of punk rock, setting the tone for the rest of the documentary.
The heart of "We Want the Airwaves" lies in its interviews with key figures of the punk rock movement. From legends like Iggy Pop and Patti Smith to lesser-known but equally influential artists, the film provides an intimate and candid look at their lives, struggles, and what inspired them to pick up a guitar or a microphone and express their frustration with the world.
One of the documentary's most striking aspects is its emphasis on the socio-political backdrop against which punk rock emerged. Through interviews and archival footage, it highlights the economic recession, political disillusionment, and social unrest of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The film effectively shows how punk rock became an outlet for a generation's anger and disillusionment, embodying a fierce DIY ethos that rejected the excesses of the mainstream music industry.
Marshall expertly weaves together interviews with musicians, writers, and fans to create a comprehensive narrative that delves into the various subgenres and regional scenes that defined punk rock. The film also explores the impact of punk on fashion, gender identity, and rebellion against the status quo. It is refreshing to see interviews with influential female punk rockers like Joan Jett and Kathleen Hanna, who discuss the challenges they faced and their determination to break gender stereotypes within the movement.
"We Want the Airwaves" successfully captures the rebellious spirit of punk rock through its gritty visuals and editing. The documentary's use of vintage concert footage, fanzines, and rare photographs brings the era to life, immersing the audience in the chaotic and exhilarating world of punk rock. It skillfully conveys the urgency and vitality of the movement while acknowledging its imperfections and controversies.
The film also explores the various controversies and criticisms that have plagued punk rock, including its associations with violence, racism, and misogyny. "We Want the Airwaves" does not shy away from these issues but instead confronts them head-on, offering a balanced and thought-provoking perspective. It encourages viewers to reflect on the complexities of a movement that was both liberating and divisive.
The documentary also touches on the global impact of punk rock, highlighting how it served as a catalyst for social and political change in different parts of the world. It features interviews with international punk rockers who share their experiences and the ways in which punk became a universal language of rebellion and self-expression.
Ava Marshall's direction and storytelling are complemented by a strong and evocative soundtrack, featuring iconic punk rock tracks as well as contemporary music influenced by the movement. The music is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the narrative, enhancing the emotional resonance of the film.
In conclusion, "We Want the Airwaves" is a compelling and essential documentary for both punk rock enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. Ava Marshall has crafted a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that pays homage to the revolutionary spirit of punk rock. It is a celebration of the movement's enduring influence and a reminder of the power of music to ignite change and inspire generations. With its rich storytelling, captivating interviews, and visceral aesthetics, "We Want the Airwaves" is a must-see for anyone interested in the cultural, musical, and social impact of punk rock. This film will leave you inspired and craving to reclaim the airwaves for your own voice, whatever your chosen form of rebellion may be.
The film opens with an electrifying montage of iconic punk rock performances, creating an immediate sense of urgency and rebellion. Marshall's choice of an aggressive and discordant soundtrack perfectly complements the ethos of punk rock, setting the tone for the rest of the documentary.
The heart of "We Want the Airwaves" lies in its interviews with key figures of the punk rock movement. From legends like Iggy Pop and Patti Smith to lesser-known but equally influential artists, the film provides an intimate and candid look at their lives, struggles, and what inspired them to pick up a guitar or a microphone and express their frustration with the world.
One of the documentary's most striking aspects is its emphasis on the socio-political backdrop against which punk rock emerged. Through interviews and archival footage, it highlights the economic recession, political disillusionment, and social unrest of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The film effectively shows how punk rock became an outlet for a generation's anger and disillusionment, embodying a fierce DIY ethos that rejected the excesses of the mainstream music industry.
Marshall expertly weaves together interviews with musicians, writers, and fans to create a comprehensive narrative that delves into the various subgenres and regional scenes that defined punk rock. The film also explores the impact of punk on fashion, gender identity, and rebellion against the status quo. It is refreshing to see interviews with influential female punk rockers like Joan Jett and Kathleen Hanna, who discuss the challenges they faced and their determination to break gender stereotypes within the movement.
"We Want the Airwaves" successfully captures the rebellious spirit of punk rock through its gritty visuals and editing. The documentary's use of vintage concert footage, fanzines, and rare photographs brings the era to life, immersing the audience in the chaotic and exhilarating world of punk rock. It skillfully conveys the urgency and vitality of the movement while acknowledging its imperfections and controversies.
The film also explores the various controversies and criticisms that have plagued punk rock, including its associations with violence, racism, and misogyny. "We Want the Airwaves" does not shy away from these issues but instead confronts them head-on, offering a balanced and thought-provoking perspective. It encourages viewers to reflect on the complexities of a movement that was both liberating and divisive.
The documentary also touches on the global impact of punk rock, highlighting how it served as a catalyst for social and political change in different parts of the world. It features interviews with international punk rockers who share their experiences and the ways in which punk became a universal language of rebellion and self-expression.
Ava Marshall's direction and storytelling are complemented by a strong and evocative soundtrack, featuring iconic punk rock tracks as well as contemporary music influenced by the movement. The music is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the narrative, enhancing the emotional resonance of the film.
In conclusion, "We Want the Airwaves" is a compelling and essential documentary for both punk rock enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. Ava Marshall has crafted a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that pays homage to the revolutionary spirit of punk rock. It is a celebration of the movement's enduring influence and a reminder of the power of music to ignite change and inspire generations. With its rich storytelling, captivating interviews, and visceral aesthetics, "We Want the Airwaves" is a must-see for anyone interested in the cultural, musical, and social impact of punk rock. This film will leave you inspired and craving to reclaim the airwaves for your own voice, whatever your chosen form of rebellion may be.
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- dareyamos
- Oct 19, 2023
Details
- Release date
- Country of origin
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- Language
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- See more company credits at IMDbPro
- Runtime1 hour 23 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 1.78 : 1 / (high definition)
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