Punk Soundtrack Drives Teen Rebellion Tale

Read Time:4 Minute, 5 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
(S)KiDS
–

Genre: Animation
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Les Solis, Lou Solis
Writer(s): Les Solis
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 SPARK ANIMATION Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: With a bold brush of artistic flair, this punk painting comes to life and catapults audiences back to the angst and rebellion of the 1990s. The film is set during a year that defined a generation: 1993, a time fraught with cultural shifts and the raw energy of punk rock. Within this backdrop, a group of high school seniors navigates their transition into adulthood, wrestling with identity and the norms society tries to force on them. Their revolutions mirror the broader cultural movements of the time, making their story a poignant echo of both the past and present.

The animation, a critical element of this film, bears the distinct mark of the Solis siblings—Les, Lou, and Leah. Their unique blend of punk music's visceral energy and eclectic animation styles sets this project apart from mainstream animated films. They draw on a diverse set of influences, from manga to modern animation and classic comics, creating a visual style that's both fresh and familiar, resonating with viewers looking for something out of the ordinary.

Integral to the film's immersive experience is its soundtrack, delivered by the punk band Rare Americans, who had previously created animated music videos by Solis Animation. Over a frantic three-week period, the band laid down 23 tracks that do more than accompany the visual story; they are the core. These tracks, full of passion and raw emotion, were all recorded in a makeshift studio, infusing the film with an authenticity and energy that underscores its themes of rebellion and self-discovery. The film feels like an extended vignette of music videos, and it works brilliantly in its execution!

Set in the fictional 'City of Champions'—a nod to Edmonton, Canada—the narrative delves into the psyche of its young protagonists. The film captures the spirit of the '90s, a decade known for its significant cultural upheavals. By situating the story in this era, the film not only explores the personal conflicts of its characters but also addresses broader themes of justice and freedom, making it relevant to contemporary audiences.

This project stands as a testament to independent animation. It was brought to life through a modest $1.12 million USD budget, secured without external funding. This financial autonomy has enabled the Solis siblings and the Priestner brothers of Rare Americans to craft a film that challenges the mainstream narrative and speaks to those who feel marginalized by society. The result is more than just a film; it’s a powerful anthem for the disenfranchised. The heart of the film is why it’s as successfully done as the final presentation is!

At the core of this feature is a profound narrative about more than just teenage rebellion against authority. It's an expansive examination of the power of voice and the critical importance of standing up in a world that often attempts to quell dissent. The filmmakers weave punk music with striking animations to create a cinematic experience that celebrates the outsider and challenges the status quo.

With its combination of animation and music set against a rich tapestry of social commentary, the film serves as a beacon for independent filmmaking and punk rock music. It invites viewers to contemplate the enduring impact of cultural rebellion and the ongoing quest for identity amid societal changes. The film will entertain and ignite conversations about the role of art in activism and the universal journey toward self-discovery. This narrative transcends the typical film story, calling out to anyone who has ever felt out of sync with the prevailing currents of their era.

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.