Review of Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains (1982) by Sam R — 22 Sep 2008

What a wacky movie. Young, skinny, initially unrecognizable Ray Winstone, teeny-bopper Diane Lane, and a script that must be some attempt at an allegory, as the story makes no goddamn sense whatsoever when taken literally, and is just all over the place. Ray Winstone's character is the only one that even seems remotely realistic (well, him and the glam singer guy). Lane appears to be some exaggerated representation of the pure angst and id of a 13-14 year old girl, I guess. I honestly don't get what the ultimate message or subtext is supposed to be, if anything. I like the crazy stuff, though: the aunts at the beginning; the speed at which merchandise is produced for the band when they get popular; the behavior of the audience at the final concert; the Bill O'Reilly-like news guy; the wacky, awesoe music video at the end. Only 3 stars. Not a good movie, but highly recommended to anyone that wants to see something weird and open to interpretation, with an incredibly cute girl as the star, and small roles by members of the Sex Pistols and the Clash, as well as Data!

"This town died years ago!!".