Variety
Recalls the considerable influence (and sometime public trivialization) of the 1990s riot grrrl movement while showcasing the role of its co-founder and most charismatic leader.
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The Punk Singer
American musician and feminist activist Kathleen Hanna is the subject of this documentary that traces her life and career, most visibly in groups Bikini Kill and Le Tigre, and as one of the better known participants in the movement known as Riot Grrrl. Archival footage and interviews follow Hanna though her childhood, teens, and into her adult career. Other interview subjects include Hanna's husband, Beastie Boy Adam Horovitz, filmmaker Tamra Davis, Kim Gordon, Carrie Brownstein and Joan Jett.
"Hanna rose to national attention as the reluctant but never shy voice of the Riot Grrrl movement. She became one of the most famously outspoken feminist icons, a cultural lightning rod. Her critics wished she would just shut-up, and her fans hoped she never would. So in 2005, when Hanna stopped shouting, many wondered why.... takes viewers on a tour of contemporary music and offers a never-before-seen view into the life of this fearless leader." (SXSW Festival)
Less2014Rating: M80 minsUSA
DocumentaryMusic
The Punk Singer | Reviews
Time Out
Offers a poignant, intimate portrait of a larger-than-life personality-one whose singular voice is still sorely needed in music, culture and, well, everywhere.
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The New York Times
Hanna and her message of empowerment are disappointingly translated very nearly into a cult of personality in this film's idolizing portrayal.
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Hollywood Reporter
Offers revelations alongside an invigorating recap of Hanna's influential career.
Full reviewThe Punk Singer | Release Details
The Punk Singer is available to stream in New Zealand now on Apple TV.