The Decline of Western Civilization 
The Decline of Western Civilization was originally released in 1981 causing outrage and controversy with its candid portrait of the burgeoning L.A. hardcore punk scene.
The ultimate record of this ‘80s subculture, The Decline of Western Civilization captured the essence of the scene, providing a front row seat to the mosh pits, violence, humour, and anti-establishment view of the world, as well as unparalleled access to some of the most influential and innovative musicians and groups of all time, including X, Circle Jerks, Black Flag, Fear, and Germs. Largely unknown to the mainstream world at the time, many of the punk bands first seen here have become legendary. This time capsule of a singular moment in rock history is highly-celebrated and has been in demand for decades by fans worldwide.
This was followed in 1988 by the equally celebrated and revealing Part II: The Metal Years. Featuring interviews and performances from Alice Copper, Aerosmith, Kiss, Ozzy Osbourne and many more, these legendary films stand among the greatest in the history of the music documentary.
Screening as part of HIJACK! QFT MIXTAPE VOL. 1 – a weekend of music-themed films selected by the staff of your friendly neighbourhood cinema. Presented in partnership with The Thin Air.
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The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years
After documenting the L.A. punk scene from 1979-80, Penelope Spheeris followed it up in 1988 with a look at the world of heavy metal, which took over Los Angeles soon after punk started to die down.