Showing a Different Revolution

Rating: 10/10 (6 October 2004)

People are very quick to make movies about the 1960's and how much that changed people. This is clearly a valid point and many movies have dealt with different aspects of that decade. Velvet Goldmine though shines light on a very different era of change that may not be as well known to people especially younger generations such as myself. The film centers around glam rock and it's Bowie-like star Brian. Gay themes are prevalent and sexuality is played up. This movie is definitely not for everyone, but Todd Haynes's remarkable story telling and writing helps is worth a viewing in my opinion. I was fifteen years old when I first saw this movie and now I am eighteen. With the exception of David Bowie who I really knew only by name and maybe a few songs, I knew little about glam rock and what it was all about. This film supplies the viewer with a mixture of history, music and lessons on human nature. If you watch this movie on a superficial level you'll probably be shocked depending on how conservative you are, but take another look. The themes are poignant about finding out who you are and about society and if you look closely you can see a little bit of yourself in the characters in their dreams and vulnerabilities. It shows you another time that is not as well documented and it does it with Todd Haynes's fast paced flair. A personal favorite of mine 9/10.