Review of Dudes (1987) by Jennifer A — 25 Jul 2009
Exhibit A on why the Punk Western hasn't exploded as a sub-genre.
Dudes (1988) - 2.3/10.
Director - Penelope Spheeris.
Starring - Jon Cryer, Daniel Roebuck, Flea, Catherine Stewart, Lee Ving, Ray Sharkey, Marc Rude.
Three punks (Jon Cryer, Daniel Roebuck and Flea) leave New York city for a road adventure. They run into a gang of rednecks and Flea is killed so retribution becomes the way of the west. In addition to Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers) the film co-stars Lee Ving of Fear.
Penelope Spheeris definitely had a connection with the 80's punk scene. She made the seminal punk documentary, "The Decline of Western Civilization" in 1981 as well as the no-budget punk drama "Suburbia" in 1983. Considering her connection, and the cult-like success of "Repo Man" this film seemed to have potential. Unfortunately it is terribly written, lacking sharp dialouge and clever zingers of "Repo Man". And let's face it Jon Cryer and Daniel Roebuck are no Emilio Estevez. Did I just say that?!?! And bsides being cleverly written "Repo Man" had the great Harry Dean Stanton.
So I guess "Dudes" is exhibit A on why the Punk Western isn't a viable genre!
This review of Dudes (1987) was written by Jennifer A on 25 Jul 2009.
Dudes has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
