Bozeman Film Society doc transports viewers to Bozeman’s early punk rock scene
On Tuesday, July 30th, Bozeman Film Society presents a special presentation of music documentary …So Good I Can’t Take It. The screening will be held at the newly renovated Ellen Theatre beginning at 7:30pm.
The film is a rowdy, jubilant tour of the new wave/punk music scene of Montana from the late 1970s into the early 1990s. Rare film footage (including an actual 1982 gig at The Ellen!), photos, and interviews with many of the underground scene’s participants capture Montana’s forgotten musical frontier.
Focused mainly on Bozeman and Missoula, director Kirk LeClaire stiches together a fascinating story of musical rebels and energetic youth playing “weird” music that wasn’t always appreciated by listeners, but that allowed many to hone their craft. Early Bozeman bands were also fortunate to have supportive adults, like high school teacher Lynne Merrick, who spent time mentoring and documenting performances. Musicians and artists that had their roots in this early Montana music scene include Pearl Jam’s Jeff Ament from Big Sandy; Steve Albini, recording engineer for Nirvana, The Pixies and more, from Missoula; John Dahl (member of early Bozeman band The Pugs) who went on to direct Rounders and numerous TV shows; and the late Joe Skyward, who played and promoted underground rock in Bozeman, and was a member Posies and Sunny Day Real Estate after moving from Southwest Montana.
Director Kirk LeClaire, an art instructor at Cal State University, will attend the screening. The film will be followed by a live music set by The Love Darts and special guests. The event is sponsored by KGLT.
Reserved seats for …So Good I Can’t Take It are $9.75 for adults or $9.25 for seniors and students. Advance tickets are available at www.theellentheatre.org (plus service fees). The Ellen lobby opens one hour before the screening for refreshments.
Mark your calendars for the 10th annual ‘Story Under the Stars’ on Friday, August 16th. The fun-filled evening returns to the lawn outside the historic Story Mansion. This year’s event will feature a screening of family favorite Night at the Museum at 7pm. Stay tuned for additional details.
Bozeman Film Society seeks out and presents independent films which engage, entertain, and foster an understanding of the world community around us. Visit www.bozemanfilmsociety.org for film previews and further information – and “Keep ‘Em Flickering!” •
