Watch Lydia Lunch: The War Is Never Over

Lydia Lunch: The War Is Never Over is a documentary film that explores the life and career of one of the most influential and provocative artists of the late 20th century, Lydia Lunch. Directed by Beth B, the film takes viewers on a journey through Lunch’s early years in New York’s iconic No Wave art and music scene to her current activism and performance art, as well as into her life as a survivor of sexual assault.

The film documents Lunch’s early years in the New York underground scene where she was a central figure in the No Wave movement, which arose as a response to the commercialization of punk rock music. The movement rejected traditional rock and roll, instead embracing a dissonant, experimental sound that incorporated influences from free jazz, avant-garde art, and European electronic music. Lunch played a key role in shaping this movement, working with a variety of bands, including Teenage Jesus and the Jerks, 8 Eyed Spy, and Beirut Slump. Her raw, confrontational performances quickly earned her a reputation as one of the most daring and uncompromising artists of her generation.

As the film progresses, it examines Lunch’s evolution as an artist, exploring her work as a writer, poet, and actress, as well as her collaborations with other artists and musicians. The film also delves into her struggles with addiction, and her ongoing battle with PTSD, which she attributes to her history of sexual abuse.

In addition to exploring Lunch’s life and career, the film also takes a broader look at the cultural and political context in which she has worked. Through archival footage and interviews with artists like Ron Athey, Bob Bert, and Tim Dahl, the documentary explores the ways in which Lunch’s work has challenged societal norms and pushed boundaries in ways that have inspired other artists and influenced popular culture.

At its heart, Lydia Lunch: The War Is Never Over is a portrait of an artist who has always been uncompromising in her vision and her commitment to speaking truth to power. Whether she’s performing on stage, collaborating with other artists, or speaking out about social and political issues, Lydia Lunch has always been driven by a desire to provoke, challenge, and empower. Through candid interviews with Lunch and her contemporaries, the film provides a deeply personal and revealing look at an artist whose impact on the art world and cultural landscape is undeniable.

Overall, Lydia Lunch: The War Is Never Over is a compelling, thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on one of the most influential and controversial artists of our time. With its raw, unfiltered approach, the film captures the essence of Lydia Lunch’s artistry, as well as the social and political climate that has shaped her work. For fans of Lunch and anyone interested in the history of the New York underground scene, this film is a must-see.

Lydia Lunch: The War Is Never Over is a 2019 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.