Watch The Runaways

In 2010's The Runaways, Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning star as Joan Jett and Cherie Currie respectively, two teenage rock stars who formed the pioneering all-girl band, The Runaways. Set in the 1970s, the film opens with Joan Jett, a young guitarist with a fierce passion for rock and roll, who is struggling to make a name for herself in a male-dominated industry. After meeting and teaming up with music producer Kim Fowley (Michael Shannon), Joan sets out to form an all-girl band, something that is unheard of at the time. The band consists of Joan on lead guitar and Cherie Currie as the lead vocalist, along with other members Sandy West (Stella Maeve), Lita Ford (Scout Taylor-Compton), and Jackie Fox (Alia Shawkat). Despite being young and inexperienced, they quickly gain a following and are invited to tour with established male rock bands. As the band begins to experience success, tensions rise between the members, particularly between Cherie and Joan. Cherie struggles with drug addiction and her relationships, while Joan resents Cherie's growing popularity and the attention she receives from fans and the media. As the tour continues, the band's personal and professional struggles reach a breaking point, leading to a dramatic and emotional finale. The Runaways is a biographical musical drama that captures the rebellious and groundbreaking spirit of one of the first all-girl rock bands. The film features impressive performances from Stewart and Fanning, who perfectly embody the confident and rebellious spirit of Joan and Cherie. Michael Shannon also shines as the flamboyant and eccentric music producer Kim Fowley. The music in the film is a mix of original songs performed by The Runaways, as well as classic rock hits of the era. The iconic performances of hits like "Cherry Bomb" and "Queens of Noise" showcase the band's raw energy and attitude. The film also delves into the issues the band faced, such as sexism in the music industry, drug addiction, and complicated relationships. The Runaways were pioneers in breaking down gender barriers in rock music, but their success came with a price. Director Floria Sigismondi brings a stylish and edgy tone to the film, demonstrating her background in music videos. The film is visually striking and captures the seedy and gritty atmosphere of the 1970s Los Angeles music scene. Overall, The Runaways is an engaging and entertaining biopic that tells the story of one of rock music's most revolutionary bands. Along with its memorable performances and iconic music, the film provides a glimpse into the lives of teenage girls who defied societal norms and blazed their own trail in a male-dominated industry.