"Queens of Noise"- Still Reigning.

Rating: 7/10 (27 June 2010)

Based on the book "Neon Angels", by Cherie Currie, ex-sex symbol and lead singer of the 70's all-girl punk rock band, The Runaways, the movie doesn't disappoint. Apart from the experiences of the band itself, it touches on the subjects of sex and drugs, inevitable in the lives of rock musicians, especially in the 70's. Feminism receives its fair share too, the opening scene being that of Cherie's first period; somewhat icky, yet meaningful and symbolic of The Runaway's propulsion into a male-dominated industry.("Girls don't play electric guitar!"- Joan Jett's guitar teacher)
As a fan of the band, I was a curious to watch the movie,a bit annoyed by the fact that Kristen Stewart, whose main claim-to-fame was her bland, forgettable portrayal of Bella Swann in the tedious Twilight movies, was cast as Joan Jett. However, one really can't blame her for that, considering that the character itself was bland and forgettable, and there really wasn't much she could do with it. But I'll expound my anti-Twilight sentiments someplace else. At the end of the movie, I was left feeling sheepish about my judgmental thoughts that she was going to bomb,and was floored by her performance. Stewart's depiction of the female rock legend is near-perfect, from her manner of talking to her tomboyish body language.
Michael Shannon (from Revolutionary Road) does a commendable job as Kim Fowley, the eccentric record producer/ songwriter, who managed the band. However, the true star of the movie is the immensely-talented Dakota Fanning. Her fantastic performance as Cherie Currie is guaranteed to leave gaping mouths and widened eyes, proving that she is definitely one of the most talented actresses of this generation. And, that she has clearly grown-up! It was startling to watch the same little girl from "I Am Sam", all grown-up, dazzling on-screen in skimpy outfits, sparkly platform shoes and heavy make-up, with the "jail bait" sex appeal and demeanor of the 'Cherry Bomb'. Not to mention the steamy shower scene and girl-on-girl action involving her and Twilight co-star, Kristen Stewart. Which, to be honest,I was somewhat scandalized by. It is eerie watching ex(just barely)-child actresses passionately make-out!
It may not be a deeply moving biopic, but the incredible performances, great direction, and kick-ass music (From David Bowie to the Sex Pistols) makes "The Runaways" a more than enjoyable watch. Oh, and did I mention that The Runaways' songs in the movie weren't lip-synced to, rather, actually sung by the leading women? Some people just have all the talent. Hmmph.