The Damned Don t You Wish That We Were Dead ( 2015 )

The Damned: Don't You Wish That We Were Dead (2015) - A Retrospective

Wes Orshoski's 2015 documentary, The Damned: Don't You Wish That We Were Dead, offers a raw and often hilarious glimpse into the chaotic world of one of punk rock's founding fathers: The Damned. Unlike some music documentaries that focus solely on nostalgia or hagiography, Orshoski's film pulls no punches, presenting the band's tumultuous history with unflinching honesty. It's a story of artistic brilliance, personal dysfunction, and the surprising resilience of a group who, against all odds, continue to create and perform.

A Band Born from Chaos

The documentary meticulously charts the band's formation in 1976 London, a period of profound social and economic upheaval. The Sex Pistols may have grabbed the headlines, but The Damned, featuring Dave Vanian (vocals), Captain Sensible (guitar, initially bass), Brian James (guitar), and Rat Scabies (drums), were arguably more musically adventurous and certainly faster off the mark. They were the first British punk band to release a single (New Rose) and an album (Damned Damned Damned). This pioneering spirit, however, was consistently undermined by internal squabbles, substance abuse, and sheer bad luck.

Orshoski relies heavily on archival footage, interweaving early performances with contemporary interviews. The contrast is stark. The youthful energy and rebellious spirit of the band in the late 70s are juxtaposed with the weary, often cynical, perspectives of the surviving members decades later. This juxtaposition is a key strength of the film, highlighting the toll that a lifetime of rock and roll excess can take.

Key Characters and Their Dynamics

The film dedicates considerable screen time to the complex relationship between Dave Vanian and Captain Sensible, the two enduring figures in The Damned's history. Vanian, the brooding, vampire-esque frontman, provides a cool and often detached counterpoint to Sensible's flamboyant and unpredictable personality. Their contrasting styles, both musically and personally, are a constant source of friction, but also a crucial element of the band's unique sound. The documentary doesn't shy away from the animosity that often simmers beneath the surface, showcasing heated arguments and long-standing resentments. However, it also hints at a deep, if often unspoken, respect and even affection between the two.

Brian James, the band's original guitarist and primary songwriter for their early, influential albums, is presented as a more understated figure. His departure from the band is explored in detail, revealing the creative tensions that ultimately led to his exit. Rat Scabies, the band's charismatic and often volatile drummer, plays a significant role in the narrative, providing anecdotes and insights into the band's chaotic early years. His own eventual departure from The Damned, amidst legal disputes and personal conflicts, is another central point of drama in the film.

Highs and Lows: A Rollercoaster Ride

Don't You Wish That We Were Dead doesn't romanticize the rock and roll lifestyle. It portrays the relentless touring, the financial struggles, and the destructive impact of drug and alcohol abuse with unflinching honesty. The film showcases the band's musical triumphs, including the groundbreaking early albums and their surprising chart success in the 1980s with singles like Eloise and Anything. However, it also delves into the numerous lineup changes, the periods of inactivity, and the legal battles that have plagued the band throughout their career. The documentary paints a picture of a band constantly on the brink of collapse, yet somehow managing to survive, reinvent themselves, and continue to create music.

One particularly poignant section of the film focuses on the band's efforts to record a new album, So, Who's Paranoid?, decades after their initial heyday. The process is fraught with challenges, including creative differences, financial constraints, and the physical limitations of the band members. This segment offers a glimpse into the realities of being a legacy act in the 21st century, struggling to remain relevant and creative in a rapidly changing musical landscape.

The Enduring Legacy

Despite the chaos and dysfunction, Don't You Wish That We Were Dead ultimately celebrates The Damned's enduring legacy. The film underscores their influence on subsequent generations of punk and alternative musicians. Through interviews with fellow musicians and fans, Orshoski demonstrates the band's impact on the development of punk rock, goth rock, and other subgenres. The film also highlights the band's continued relevance, showcasing their energetic live performances and their unwavering commitment to their music. The Damned may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of their contemporaries, but they have remained a vital and influential force in the world of alternative music.

Themes and Interpretations

Beyond the band's personal story, Don't You Wish That We Were Dead explores broader themes related to creativity, ambition, and the price of fame. The film raises questions about the compromises artists make in pursuit of success and the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity in a commercialized music industry. It also examines the impact of personal demons and internal conflicts on the creative process. The Damned's story serves as a cautionary tale, but also as a testament to the power of music to transcend personal limitations and create something lasting.

The title itself, Don't You Wish That We Were Dead, is deliberately provocative. It can be interpreted in several ways: as a sarcastic jab at the band's detractors, as a reflection of their self-destructive tendencies, or as a challenge to the audience to confront their own mortality. The film embraces this ambiguity, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions about The Damned's place in music history and their significance in the broader cultural landscape.

Documentary Style and Techniques

Orshoski's documentary style is largely observational, allowing the band members to speak for themselves without imposing a heavy-handed narrative. He skillfully interweaves archival footage with contemporary interviews, creating a dynamic and engaging viewing experience. The film's editing is sharp and energetic, mirroring the band's own chaotic energy. The soundtrack is, of course, dominated by The Damned's music, showcasing their diverse range of styles and their enduring appeal.

While Orshoski maintains a largely objective stance, he clearly has a deep appreciation for The Damned and their music. This is evident in his careful selection of archival footage and his insightful interviews with the band members. The film is not simply a chronicle of the band's history; it is a celebration of their artistry and their enduring spirit.

Reception and Critical Analysis

The Damned: Don't You Wish That We Were Dead received largely positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised its honest portrayal of the band's history, its engaging storytelling, and its insightful interviews with the band members. The film was also commended for its effective use of archival footage and its celebration of The Damned's enduring legacy.

Some critics, however, noted that the film occasionally lacked focus, jumping between different periods in the band's history without providing sufficient context. Others felt that the film could have delved deeper into the band's musical influences and their impact on other artists. Nevertheless, Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is widely regarded as a definitive documentary on The Damned, offering a comprehensive and compelling portrait of one of punk rock's most influential and enigmatic bands.

The Damned: A Timeline

Key Albums by The Damned

The Damned: Band Member Roles and Tenure

Conclusion

The Damned: Don't You Wish That We Were Dead is more than just a music documentary; it's a compelling story of artistic survival, personal redemption, and the enduring power of punk rock. Orshoski's film offers a warts-and-all portrait of a band that has defied expectations, overcome adversity, and continued to create music on their own terms. It's a must-see for fans of The Damned, punk rock enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the human drama behind the music.