Movie spotlight
Pretend I'm Not Here
Student Eric kills time by spying on his neighbors. Compulsively taking notes on everything within binocular range from his bedroom window, he harasses his neighbors by sending unsigned notes and making their private affairs public. When they discover his identity and draw him in, will this release him from his solitude, or confirm in his mind that he will always be the outsider?
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary chronicles the early punk rock scene of Los Angeles in the late 1970s and early 1980s, focusing on the Black Flag's rise and the vibrant, often chaotic, community that surrounded them. It explores the DIY ethos, the music, the art, and the social commentary that defined this influential era. Through interviews and archival footage, the film captures the raw energy and lasting impact of a movement that challenged the mainstream.
Critical Reception
While not a mainstream blockbuster, 'Pretend I'm Not Here' was generally well-received by critics and fans of punk rock and documentary filmmaking. It was praised for its authentic portrayal of a significant subculture and its insightful interviews with key figures. Some found its pacing uneven at times, but the overall consensus was that it offered a valuable and engaging look at a formative period in music history.
What Reviewers Say
Captures the raw energy and spirit of early LA punk.
Features insightful interviews with pivotal figures in the scene.
Offers a compelling historical document for fans of punk rock and its origins.
Google audience: Information on Google user ratings and specific review summaries is not readily available for this documentary.
Fun Fact
The film's title, 'Pretend I'm Not Here,' is taken from a lyric in the Black Flag song 'Gimmie Me The Reason'.
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