On Saturday, June 27th, writer/director Penelope Spheeris (Wayne’s World, The Beverly Hillbillies, Black Sheep) will visit the Music Box Theatre for a special double feature of her groundbreaking rock documentaries, The Decline of Western Civilization Parts I & II. Ms. Spheeris will introduce the 9:45pm and midnight screenings, and participate in a Q&A following the 9:45 show!
The ultimate record of LA’s 80s punk subculture, The Decline of Western Civilization captured the essence of the scene, providing a front row seat to the mosh pits, violence, humor 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.
The Decline Of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years is a fast-paced look at the outrageous heavy metal scene of the late ‘80s. Set in Los Angeles, the film explores fascinating portraits of struggling musicians, fans and star-struck groupies. This raucous and uproarious chapter features Alice Cooper, Ozzy Osbourne, Poison, members of Aerosmith, KISS, Motorhead, and performances by Megadeth, Faster Pussycat, Lizzy Borden, London, Odin and Seduce.
The Music Box Theatre is located at 3733 North Southport Ave, Chicago IL 60613. For additional information, and to order your $12 tickets (good for one or both shows!), please visit the theatre’s website.
Can’t make it to the show? Fear not, fans! Shout! Factory will release the ultimate collector’s edition of Spheeris’ Decline of Western Civilization trilogy on DVD and Blu-ray the following Tuesday (June 30th). Featuring new 2k scans of each film, commentaries, and more, this set is sure to blow minds and speakers the world over!