Watch L7 - Pretend We're Dead

L7 - Pretend We're Dead is a documentary film about the all-female punk band L7. The film offers a sharp and sometimes humorous snapshot of L7's career, chronicling their rise to fame in the 1990s and the eventual breakup of the band, as well as their recent reunion. Directed by Sarah Price, the film features extensive archival footage, interviews with the band members and other musicians, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of L7's recording sessions and concert tours. Price also captures the band's outspoken activism, which was as much a part of their identity as their music.

One of the standout qualities of L7 - Pretend We're Dead is the sheer force of personality that the band members exude. Donita Sparks, Suzi Gardner, Jennifer Finch, and Dee Plakas were pioneers in a male-dominated genre, and they refused to play by the rules set by the music industry. They were raucous, unapologetic, and fiercely loyal to each other, and their bond is one of the film's most compelling themes.

Throughout the film, we see how L7's music and message evolved over time. The band's early sound was straightforward punk rock, but they quickly adopted a heavier, more guitar-driven sound that set them apart from their peers. They also became more political, tackling issues such as sexism, homophobia, and animal rights in their lyrics and onstage banter.

L7's outspokenness often landed them in hot water with critics and the media. They famously took off their clothes on national television, protested at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards, and even sparked a riot at a 1992 concert in Philadelphia. But despite the controversy, L7 continued to attract a devoted fan base, and their influence on the riot grrrl movement and other feminist punk bands cannot be overstated.

One of the most moving aspects of the film is the footage of L7's reunion tour in 2015. After over a decade apart, the band members were brought back together by the death of their friend and former manager, and as they embarked on their tour, it was clear that their bond was as strong as ever. The film captures the joy and nostalgia of their performances, as well as the emotional toll that the experience takes on the band members.

Overall, L7 - Pretend We're Dead is a spirited and engaging documentary that offers an intimate look at one of the most influential punk bands of the 1990s. The film is a testament to the vitality of L7's music, as well as their feminist and political ideals, which continue to resonate with fans today. Whether you're a diehard L7 fan or simply a fan of punk rock, this film is not to be missed.

L7 - Pretend We're Dead is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes.