The Decline of Western Civilization

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More About

• Richmond
• Penelope Spheeris
• Henry Rollins
• Punk Rock
• Arts, Entertainment, and Media

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The title The Decline of Western Civilization sounds more like a class for philosophy students than a documentary about the punk music movement. But Declineshows the underground Los Angeles punk rock scene through 1979 and 1980. The bands featured are The Bags, Black Flag (sadly, without Henry Rollins), Circle Jerks, Catholic Discipline, Fear and X. In 1981, when Penelope Spheeris's documentary was originally screened, punk fans caused such a nuisance that Los Angeles Police Chief Daryl Gates asked her not to screen it again. (Thankfully, she didn't listen.) Some 30 years later, the documentary has a cult following and is a must-see for punk lovers. 8:30 p.m. Sedition Books, 901 Richmond. For information, call 713-523-0807. Suggested $5 donation.
Sun., Aug. 15, 8:30 p.m., 2010