The Punk Rock Movie That Taught a Generation of Girls Not to Put Out
In the early 1980s, I was a college student flipping through channels late at night, catching snippets of TV shows and movies that would later become iconic in punk rock history. It was during one such session when I stumbled upon "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains." The film tells the story of three young women who escape their dead-end Pennsylvania town by starting a band and embarking on a tour.
What sets this movie apart is its portrayal of women in punk rock. At a time when second-wave feminism was gaining momentum, the film depicts a world where equal rights were not yet universally accepted. The Stains' motto "Don't put out" resonates with the audience, particularly young girls and women who see themselves in the characters.
The film's depiction of middle America is precise and unglamorized, showcasing the harsh realities faced by many women during this era. A pregnant woman talks about living in her car, while Corinne, played by Diane Lane, works as a waitress to support her younger sister. The girls run away from home without anyone seeming to notice or care, highlighting the struggles women faced in that time.
What's remarkable about "Fabulous Stains" is its cult status. Despite being shown only six times on Night Flight and never released theatrically, it has become a beloved classic among punk rock fans. This can be attributed to the film's raw performances and its ability to hit close to home for many who saw it.
The film's screenwriter, Nancy Dowd, was so affected by the sexism she experienced on set that she took her name off the project. However, thanks to British journalist Caroline Coon, who worked as a consultant on the film, the movie avoided some of the mistakes made in other media when tackling punk rock.
"Fabulous Stains" has inspired generations of women in music, including Courtney Love, who calls it "the best film ever made." The film's impact can be seen in bands like Bikini Kill and Bratmobile, who were directly influenced by its message and style. Ex Hex's video for "Don't Wanna Lose" is a direct tribute to the Stains.
In today's world, where #MeToo has become a household phrase, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" remains a powerful reminder of the struggles women faced in the past. Its raw performances and unglamorized portrayal of middle America make it a must-watch for anyone interested in punk rock history.
This iconic film still holds up today, with its message of female empowerment and individuality remaining just as relevant now as they were back then. As we look to the future, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" is a reminder that true rebellion starts from within.
In the early 1980s, I was a college student flipping through channels late at night, catching snippets of TV shows and movies that would later become iconic in punk rock history. It was during one such session when I stumbled upon "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains." The film tells the story of three young women who escape their dead-end Pennsylvania town by starting a band and embarking on a tour.
What sets this movie apart is its portrayal of women in punk rock. At a time when second-wave feminism was gaining momentum, the film depicts a world where equal rights were not yet universally accepted. The Stains' motto "Don't put out" resonates with the audience, particularly young girls and women who see themselves in the characters.
The film's depiction of middle America is precise and unglamorized, showcasing the harsh realities faced by many women during this era. A pregnant woman talks about living in her car, while Corinne, played by Diane Lane, works as a waitress to support her younger sister. The girls run away from home without anyone seeming to notice or care, highlighting the struggles women faced in that time.
What's remarkable about "Fabulous Stains" is its cult status. Despite being shown only six times on Night Flight and never released theatrically, it has become a beloved classic among punk rock fans. This can be attributed to the film's raw performances and its ability to hit close to home for many who saw it.
The film's screenwriter, Nancy Dowd, was so affected by the sexism she experienced on set that she took her name off the project. However, thanks to British journalist Caroline Coon, who worked as a consultant on the film, the movie avoided some of the mistakes made in other media when tackling punk rock.
"Fabulous Stains" has inspired generations of women in music, including Courtney Love, who calls it "the best film ever made." The film's impact can be seen in bands like Bikini Kill and Bratmobile, who were directly influenced by its message and style. Ex Hex's video for "Don't Wanna Lose" is a direct tribute to the Stains.
In today's world, where #MeToo has become a household phrase, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" remains a powerful reminder of the struggles women faced in the past. Its raw performances and unglamorized portrayal of middle America make it a must-watch for anyone interested in punk rock history.
This iconic film still holds up today, with its message of female empowerment and individuality remaining just as relevant now as they were back then. As we look to the future, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" is a reminder that true rebellion starts from within.
OMG have u seen "Ladies & Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains"? 
it's so inspiring to see these girls take control of their lives and start a band just because they wanted to 
and it's crazy how it still holds up today - the message is just as relevant now as it was back then 
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I'm not convinced about this film being as influential as it's made out to be. I mean, sure, it's got a great message about female empowerment and individuality, but 6 shows on Night Flight? That's not exactly widespread exposure if you ask me 
. And what's with the "don't put out" motto? Wasn't that just a typical punk rock girl thing back then or did the film really help change people's perceptions of it? 
still can't believe how lucky we are that we have movies like this one to show us what not to do back then 
think about it, if the movie didn't exist who knows how many girls would've been "put out" 
anyway, its dope that a film from the 80s can still inspire new bands and musicians like Ex Hex 
but what's even cooler is that it took some guts to make a movie that tackled those tough issues back in the day 
Diane Lane's character Corinne is a total legend and her story is so inspiring 
i remember watching it as a teenager and feeling seen by the characters on screen they were so raw and unapologetic about being women in a male-dominated industry 
theyre like the ultimate feminist rockstars 
dont put out is like the anthem right now
And Corinne, played by Diane Lane, is literally my spirit animal - she's all about supporting her sister & living life on her own terms 
And it's not just punk rock fans who will love it, anyone interested in music history or feminist culture should definitely check it out 
i've seen it 3 times already & i still can't get enough of it! 
. I'm so glad it still holds up today, reminding us that true rebellion starts from within 
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