On this day June 17, 1988, The Decline of Western Civilization Part II The Metal Years premiered in theaters. Directed by Penelope Spheeris, this rock documentary focused on the excess and energy of the 1980s heavy metal scene in Los Angeles.
Following the original 1981 punk focused installment, this second film shifted the lens to glam and hard rock bands that ruled the Sunset Strip. With a mix of interviews, concert footage and behind the scenes chaos, the movie featured artists like Ozzy Osbourne, Poison, Faster Pussycat, W.A.S.P., and more.
Made on a budget of 500,000 dollars, the film brought in 373,000 at the box office, but its real impact came later as it became an important time capsule of the decadent rock culture that defined late 80s metal.
80s insight: The Metal Years exposed the raw highs and lows of 80s rock stardom, showing both the allure and the downfall of chasing fame with a can of hairspray and a Marshall amp.
Following the original 1981 punk focused installment, this second film shifted the lens to glam and hard rock bands that ruled the Sunset Strip. With a mix of interviews, concert footage and behind the scenes chaos, the movie featured artists like Ozzy Osbourne, Poison, Faster Pussycat, W.A.S.P., and more.
Made on a budget of 500,000 dollars, the film brought in 373,000 at the box office, but its real impact came later as it became an important time capsule of the decadent rock culture that defined late 80s metal.
80s insight: The Metal Years exposed the raw highs and lows of 80s rock stardom, showing both the allure and the downfall of chasing fame with a can of hairspray and a Marshall amp.
