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 “Hi,
I'm Mr. Ramones
Ramones as I can be
since 1979, when I was only three
I should get a medal just for being me
Ramones Ramones Ramones Ramones”
“Mr Ramones” by the Mr. T. Experience
The prospect of meeting someone more clued up about the Ramones
is a daily worry for me, so I simply had to see this film. I
expected the cinema to be packed with smug Mr Ramones-types
and eager young wannabies who’d seen Ben off of Hollyoaks
wearing one of their tee-shirts, but the venue was surprisingly
enough only about half full. I had been sat down a matter of
minutes before I heard someone boasting about all the shows
they had seen and of their extensive Ramones knowledge to their
no-doubt awestruck companions, so I knew I had got the theory
at least partially right.
‘End of the Century’ is a fairly comprehensive record
of the Ramones legend, with engaging interview footage of the
band’s members and associates spiced up with a little
live footage. There are very few revelations that will be news
to a reasonably devoted fan (although you do get to find out
what happened to Richie Ramone), however you really get the
impression of being inside the inner sanctum of the band, feeling
genuine empathy with them.
The film is also worth seeing for those who are not fans of
the Ramones for the pure entertainment value. The band member
interviews contain some genuinely hilarious moments, particularly
those with Dee Dee Ramone, who comes across as a fantastically
charismatic yet deeply fucked up individual. His charming naivety
is totally incongruous with his status of punk rock legend and
tattooed skag head, and pretty much every word, every gesture
brings at least a smile from the audience. There were moments
when I felt the laughter was inappropriate, disrespectful to
the band I love, but I am told I was being too precious. In
fairness, the tone of the film was pitched about right in my
opinion, avoiding being either over-reverential or unduly mocking.
I did find the subtitles on their songs rather annoying though.
Now all I need to do is get hold of the film ‘Hey is Dee
Dee home’.
words: Harry Harris
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