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

The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is a 2015 documentary film that chronicles the story of the legendary British punk rock band, The Damned. Directed by Wes Orshoski, the film features archival footage, extensive interviews with the band members, and appearances from various musicians and celebrity fans, including Dave Grohl, Chrissie Hynde, and Mick Jones.

Starting with the formation of the band in 1976, the documentary covers The Damned's rise to fame, their numerous lineup changes, and their impact on the punk rock scene. The band's origins are traced back to Dave Vanian, who was working as a gravedigger when he met guitarist Brian James. Together they formed The Damned, which soon became known for their frenetic, high-energy live shows.

Through interviews with all of the band's members, the film delves into the various personalities and dynamics that made up The Damned. From Captain Sensible's quirky humor to Rat Scabies' relentless drumming, each member contributed unique elements to the band's sound and image.

The documentary also explores some of the controversies that The Damned faced throughout their career. From disagreements with managers to clashes with other bands, the group faced numerous obstacles that threatened to derail their success. However, their fan base remained loyal and The Damned continued to push the boundaries of punk rock.

The film features plenty of concert footage, showcasing The Damned's powerful live performances. From their early days playing at the Roxy Club in London to their later, more commercial success, the band remained a force to be reckoned with on stage. The movie also captures the creative process behind some of The Damned's most iconic songs, such as "New Rose" and "Smash It Up."

One of the highlights of the documentary is the candid interviews with the band members themselves. Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Rat Scabies, and various other members open up about their personal struggles and how the ups and downs of their career affected them. From Vanian's reluctant role as frontman to Captain Sensible's departure from the band, the film doesn't shy away from the more difficult moments in The Damned's history.

The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead also sheds light on how the band influenced other musicians and cultural movements. Fans of The Damned, including members of Guns N' Roses and The Offspring, discuss how the band's music and attitude impacted their own work. The documentary also touches on the broader impact that punk rock had on the British cultural landscape, and how The Damned played a vital role in that scene.

Overall, The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is a comprehensive and engaging look at one of punk rock's most influential bands. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering The Damned for the first time, this documentary will give you a new appreciation for their impact and influence.

The Damned - Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.