Expected a bit more from the Hottest Band in the World

Rating: Null/10 (11 January 2000)

While I wasn't expecting "Detroit Rock City" to be a masterpiece, I was expecting a little bit more of a good time from the band that really gives it's all for the fans...
"Detroit Rock City" is a story set in 1978, when KISS was at the height of their popularity. It focuses on the efforts of four friends to get into a KISS concert after one of their moms destroys the tickets originally purchased.
Most of the comedy in this one is of a physical nature, although there are a few lines that are pretty good. Edward Furlong returns in this one to play Hawk, leader of the group of friends, as well as lead singer for their rock band Mystery. He plays a "burnout" type character well, and is pretty funny during his efforts at striptease to win money for tickets.
The rest of his friends are stereotypical with one exception: Sam Huntington as Jeremiah "Jam" Bruce. The band's drummer, he is shy and sensitive. Although constantly badgered by his nagging mother (a wonderfully over the top Lin Shaye), he manages to be not only rebellious enough to be your typical teen, he exhibits a heart and feeling missing from most teen characters.
Once again, Natasha Lyonne is woefully underused. Her character of Christine (KISS fans will realize that the two main teen females are named for songs: Christine Sixteen, and the ubiuqitous Beth) is basically a disco loving tart, dressed in short skirts and acting as if she is better than you. This, along with "American Pie" really could have utilized this talented young actress better.
Speaking of Beth, Melanie Lynskey plays that character. She is hopelessly in love with Jam, and due to a disturbance from his mother on her last day at Robert F. Kennedy High may be unable to tell him how she feels......or will she?.............. Ms. Lynskey does an admirable enough job with her part, Beth is the girl next door, the one everyone just loves. She comes across as both shy and vunerable. Good job.
Now on to KISS themselves. (SPOILER ALERT!!) They appear only in the final scenes of the movie to play the title song, albeit an abbreviated version. While they recreated a 70's era show, complete with set and costumes, that appears to be the only real effort put into this movie by them. This movie is clearly focused on the fans and their loyalty to the band. While it pains me to say this, as I count myself proudly among the ranks of the KISS Army, it didnt give enough of a thank you to the fans.
"Detroit Rock City" is not meant to be taken seriously, nor is it Oscar material. Its about having a good time and following your dreams, no matter what others try to do. KISS are the unequaled masters of that realm, although this one will rank with "KISS Meets The Phantom of The Park" in terms of cheesy.
1 out of 5