The Unsung Heroes of New Romantics

Read Time:3 Minute, 9 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Tramps!
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 44m
Director(s): Kevin Hegge
Where To Watch: On UK Digital December 11, 2023, from Bohemia Media

RAVING REVIEW: Take what can only be described as a vibrant tour back in time with TRAMPS!, where director Kevin Hegge captures the pulsating heart of late 1970s London. This documentary is a kaleidoscope of color, sound, and rebellion, offering a unique window into the lives of those who dared to defy norms and dance to their rhythms. Hegge presents an immersive narrative that feels less like a historical account and more like a vivid walk through the streets and clubs that defined an era.

The heart of TRAMPS! beats with the rhythm of a time that dared to challenge every societal norm. With a directorial eye that captures both the glitz and the grit, Hegge takes us through a journey that's a feast for the senses and a testament to the enduring spirit of the New Romantics (not Taylor Swift’s song) but an underground subculture movement that originated in the United Kingdom characterized by flamboyant, eccentric fashion inspired by fashion boutiques. This isn't just about looking back; it's about stepping into a world where the Blitz club was the epicenter of creativity, and figures like Steve Strange held the keys to a kingdom of unbridled expression.

Hegge weaves a narrative rich with the threads of personal tales and cultural insights. The film beautifully contrasts the economic hardship of London with the extravagant, inventive fashion of the New Romantics. It's a story that shows how necessity became the mother of invention, turning scarcity into an explosion of creativity and style—an accurate street-level depiction of a period that will live in infamy.

The documentary's editing is sharp and rhythmic, mirroring the fast-paced energy of the era it portrays. However, this swift pace sometimes breezes past the more profound stories, leaving viewers longing to explore the stories of these individuals and their experiences more intimately. While it excels in capturing the broad strokes of the New Romantic movement, TRAMPS! occasionally misses the chance to delve deeper into the emotional landscape of its subjects.

Despite these shortcomings, TRAMPS! stands as a celebration of difference and defiance. It's more than a documentary; it's a time capsule that captures the essence of a movement that celebrated individuality in the face of societal and political adversity. The film is a visual spectacle, an auditory delight, and a heartfelt nod to those who lived boldly and authentically.

TRAMPS! is about immersing the viewer in the spirit of a bygone era. It's an essential watch for anyone interested in the intersection of art, fashion, music, and social change. The film resonates with a contemporary audience, echoing the timeless message that actual rebellion lies in being oneself.

In summary, TRAMPS! is an engaging yet occasionally uneven journey through the world of the New Romantics. It's a cinematic celebration of an era that was as much about striking fashion as it was about breaking barriers and challenging norms. While it might not dive as deep as some would prefer, it's an exhilarating ride through a pivotal moment in cultural history, reminding us that the most impactful art often emerges from the margins.

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[photo courtesy of BOHEMIA MEDIA]