Joan Jett – Bad Reputation (documentary)
Magnolia Pictures
https://www.badreputationfilm.com/

 Rating: A

“I did it my way”, Frank Sinatra, that is exactly what Joan Jett has done and continues to do. After forty years in music she is still relevant and is still a force to be reckon with as she continues to rock. The new documentary  from Magnolia Films shares her story’ Joan Jett is an icon, a rock legend, a punk legend, and a beautiful soul.

Her journey began with a guitar she got for Christmas. A simple gift that gave a passion to a girl during a time when girls were not supposed to rock. Times have changed, and she is one that proved that women can rock just as much as guys can – and she is even better than a lot of the guys. Joan Jett began The Runaways, then left the band she started. She is a fighter, she does not give up.

Her determination is inspiring, she has a drive that is shown throughout the film. It is who she is. The film shows how a friendship with Kenny Laguna has developed into having that one person who is the ultimate ride or die friendship. Through hard work Joan Jett shows how to pursue a dream that makes you happy. She never took no for an answer, when walls were put up she just plowed through them. She paved the way for so many, not only in rock n roll but in other careers as well, for example this writer. She influences me still to this day.

The film shows the other side of Joan Jett as well. The caring side who has a tremendous amount of compassion for animals and people. It shows her support of the military troops, even if you don’t like war. Her life is inspiring in so many ways. A musician who puts her all into music, one of the world’s greatest guitarists, and a beautiful soul. Her guitar playing alone is enough for any young lady to fall in love with the instrument.

A powerhouse on the guitar, Joan Jett has paved the way for many of today’s talented guitarist. A musician, an actress, a producer, and a business woman, this is who all women should aspire to become. The Ruaways song Cherry Bomb is a classic and should be played, everyone should hear this song.  “I Love Rock’n Roll”, “Crimson and Clover”, “I Hate Myself For Loving you” and “Bad Reputation” this is only a few of the hits that Joan Jett and The Blackhearts have had. Her future is bright, maybe she should wear shades. She will continue to rock an inspire.

The documentary includes interviews from other artists and musicians that she has influenced, including Bikini Kill and Billy Joel Armstrong. It has interviews with members of her first band The Runaways and includes discussions from Iggy Pop and Blondie. The flow of the film is well produced, and it is one that can set a standard on how to tell a career story. New film makers take notes while watching.

Bad Reputation was released on Friday September 28, 2018 on demand. It will inspire anyone who watches. Check it out because it will show that you can do anything.

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Website: http://joanjett.com/

By Tiffini Taylor