Film Forum

“The Mekons are the most revolutionary group in the history of rock ‘n’ roll” – rock critic Lester Bangs. A genre-defying collective who emerged from the 1977 British punk scene, The Mekons progressed from socialist art students with no musical skills to the prolific, raucous progeny of Hank Williams. The film follows their improbable history – a surprising and influential embrace of folk and country music; forays into the art world (collaborations with Vito Acconci and Kathy Acker); and consistent bad luck with major record labels. Fans Jonathan Franzen, Luc Sante, Will Oldham, Mary Harron, Fred Armisen, and Greil Marcus testify to the power of their music and their artistic innovations. REVENGE OF THE MEKONS reveals how, four decades into an ever-evolving career, The Mekons continue to make bold, unpredictable music while staying true to the punk ethos.

USA • 2013 • 95 MINS. • Music Box Films

Reviews

“Critics’ Pick! An infectious new documentary from Joe Angio… both a generous primer on the band… and a celebration of its longevity… An ode to creative reinvention.”
– Ben Kenigsberg, The New York Times

“Critics’ Pick! (The Mekons’) vitality is a kind of miracle. Angio captures them in all their ragged, rough-and-tumble splendor. Nothing is too far out, or too far in, for the Mekons. Their job is the everyday hunt for poetry.”
– Stephanie Zacharek, Village Voice

“Critics’ Pick! Moving and Raucous! Engaging.”
– Kurt Gottschalk, Time Out New York

“Superb”
– Robert Christgau

“An exemplary documentary about an exemplary band… a compelling look at why this particular band of ruffians has continued to remain so important for its devoted followers since their long-ago and almost accidental inception at the height of the punk-rock era.”
– Andrew Schenker, Slant

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