DIG THAT: 1991: THE YEAR PUNK BROKE

DIRECTOR | DAVE MARKEY
STARRING | KIM GORDON, KURT COBAIN, J MASCIS, DAVE GROHL, COURTNEY LOVE
STUDIO | WE GOT POWER FILMS
RELEASE | 9.6.11

While a fierce debate over whether or not punk was truly “dead” has raged since the late ‘70s, it was officially declared “broken” in 1991. Or at least that’s what Sonic Youth would have you believe.

Originally released in 1992, this indie rock documentary is equal parts fascinating and masturbatory. Following the ever talented, ever pretentious members of Sonic Youth as they headline around Europe, we see firsthand the humor, drudgery and alcohol that make such a tour possible. It also features some members of other, more minor bands, like …

uh, fucking Dinosaur Jr. and Nirvana.

While there are some sweet live performances and plenty of scenes showing what amazingly cool assholes these guys could be, the real beauty of the film lies in the segments with Kim Gordon. Watching her tender interactions with Kurt Cobain is about as heartwarming as rock gets.