Hard Core Logo (1996)

If you go to Amazon's Canadian branch (at www.amazon.ca), you can order the much superior version of this classic movie. Here's what you get:

A few years ago, Miramax released a bare bones DVD of Hard Core Logo, but now Bruce McDonald has re-released his movie with a new transfer (strangely full-frame as opposed to the 1.85:1 aspect ratio of the Miramax disc) and a new and improved 5.1 surround soundtrack.

First up is the rowdy audio commentary between Bruce McDonald, actor Hugh Dillon and the screenwriter, Noel S. Baker. McDonald and Baker dominate the track at first, but then Dillon gets more vocal (or is that drunker?) as the commentary progresses. There are a lot of interesting observations from all the participants. Initially, Dillon wasn't interested in doing the movie because he felt that most rock 'n' roll films didn't get it right but McDonald convinced him that this one would be different. What makes this commentary such a treat to listen to is that it's obvious that everyone involved hasn't watched the film in years and that they're having a blast revisiting it. They are all clearly proud of the film and aren't afraid to poke fun at it and themselves.

Also included are the obligatory cast and crew biographies and the theatrical trailer that was originally on the Miramax DVD.

Another new feature are two music videos: one for Dillon's band, The Headstones and the other for Hard Core Logo, which parodies A Hard Day's Night (the band in ridiculous wigs runs away from their fans) and features clips from the movie.

Fans of Canadian music will be happy to know that the tribute CD-with actual Canadian rock bands covering the songs of Hard Core Logo-is also included. For those that think Bryan Adams, Celine Dion and Avril Lavigne sum up Canadian music, think again!

In keeping with its DIY roots, the DVD booklet is designed and written like an independent punk rock fanzine that is a nice added touch.

This movie is an absolute MUST for Callum Keith Rennie fans; he shines in his role as a reluctant returning member of the Canadian punk band Hard Core Logo for their reunion tour. This movie has been described as a dark, realist Spinal Tap, and was billed as a black comedy. While the movie has its funny, often hilarious moments, it actually concentrates on the real, human emotions driving each character. This is a character-driven movie, rather than a plotor action-driven movie, and shows a great deal of insight about the internal politics of friendship. Though the performance scenes are also very cool.

Buy Hard Core Logo (1996) Now

"This is Spinal Tap" created the mockumentary genre in film with brilliant caricatures of washed-up rockers, and a sly wit that often slipped past on the first viewing. Bruce McDonald has upped the ante with "Hard Core Logo," his mockumentary about a defunct band of punk rockers who come together for a charity show, stay together for a short tour, and implode rather spectacularly on the road from obscurity to nowhere.

Yes, it's funny. It's monumentally funny in a nasty, painful way. You can't like these people, but you can come to love them, unloveable as they are, because they are so completely human and messed up. Though you know there is no way on earth the band can hold together you'll find yourself wanting them to succeed. The performances are amazing; there is not a false note in the whole film. Particularly fine are John Pyper-Ferguson as John Oxenberger, Julian Richings as Bucky Haight, and Hugh Dillon who gives a brilliant performance as Joe Dick. There's even a cameo by the late Joey Ramone.

HCL requires steady nerves, it's harrowing, but it's absolutely worth the time. "4 guys 5 nights 3000 miles 764 gallons of gas 987 bottles of beer 3457 cigarettes 1 last shot" Amen.

Read Best Reviews of Hard Core Logo (1996) Here

Hey, if you want to watch something like Spinal Tap see, Mighty Wind, Best in Show, or Waiting for Guffman. This a much more dramatic mockumentary. I'm amazed I hadn't heard of this powerful movie before now, considering it's around 10 years already. While not a straight comedy I haven't laughed this hard in a while. The acid freak-out scene was almost too silly but the reactions once they sobered up were priceless, hysterical and believable. The sadness that runs through this film is chilling but probably familiar to anyone who has ever known someone involved with the real business of music. Having chased these dreams myself in a similar fashion I always feel somewhat lucky to have given up on the dream and this picture seems to confirm the notion that no matter how long or satisfying your 15 minutes was, there is a price. In Rock and Roll terms,"The Devil Will Collect".

Want Hard Core Logo (1996) Discount?

...try picking up a copy of the book H.ARD CORE ROADSHOW, a making-of diary kept by the HCL screenwriter, Noel Baker. The book is alright, but at least it satisfies some of the behind-the-scenes cravings you might have after watching the movie. Found out some surprising things, like how several GREAT story plot points and that ending came to be. What's up with Quentin being so stingy with the extras on the DVD?? Even though I give the movie itself five stars, the DVD presentation merits only three. Somebody re-release this thing, and do it RIGHT!

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