Imagine if you will, the spring of 1991. A 7th grader sits in his living room watching a short-lived sketch comedy show called “The Idiot Box” on MTV. In this particular episode, a contest is announced that will allow viewers to “Sacrifice Your Daughter to GWAR!” Both revolted and intrigued by the grotesque figures on his screen, the 7th grader heads to his local music store to find out more. There, he locates a cassette tape labeled Scumdogs of the Universe, which features the band GWAR in their full other-wordly, barbaric battlements. Fully recognizing that this is clearly not entertainment meant for children, the 7th grader saves his nickels and dimes with hopes to one day purchase this surely blasphemous music.
I’ve held a soft spot in my heart for GWAR ever since our chance encounter 30 years ago, even if I’ve enjoyed their artistry and politics more than their music. In the new documentary This is GWAR, filmmaker Scott Barber chronicles the now decades-long career of the infamous rockers, but fails to capture their true spirit. While the story of GWAR remains compelling and wild, This is GWAR is almost completely devoid of their music or their politics. Lip service is given to the subversive nature of their live shows and lyrics, but very few examples are given to make us understand either their satire or the man behind it all — the late Dave Brockie.
However, as a primer for the uninitiated, This is GWAR serves as an entertaining introduction into the world of punk rock, collectivism, and DIY touring that, when paired with other like-minded docs (e.g. 2017’s Turn it Around) offers an enticing glimpse into the world of independence and autonomy. This is GWAR is a fun and surprisingly emotional, if introductory experience — I just wish it was a definitive political and music-driven one as well.
Originally published by ASHEVILLE MOVIES.
James is a writer, record collector, wrestling nerd, and tabletop gamer living with his family in Asheville, North Carolina. He is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association, the North Carolina Film Critics Association, and contributes to The Daily Orca, Razorcake Magazine, Mountain Xpress, and Asheville Movies.