The Runaways (2010)

Movie of the week

Getting dragged back to the mid-’70s can be fun, especially when it’s for rock ‘n’ roll.

Based on lead singer Cherie Currie’s autobiography, The Runaways provides an overview of the formation, sudden fame and equally sudden breakup of the first all-girl rock band.

The story focuses on Cherie Currie and Joan Jett, but mostly on Currie. Dakota Fanning plays Currie as a confused 15-year-old in a messed-up family.

Jett is played by Kristen Stewart – the girl from Twilight. Here she shows off the kind of talent we saw in her pre-Twilight days. She captures the fire and spirit of Jett and leaves little doubt she will pursue her dreams despite all obstacles.

Synopsis

The movie focuses on the Runaways’ formation and meteoric rise to fame. Their first single, “Cherry Bomb,” gets some play in the US, after which The Runaways go on a country-wide tour of major venues and sleazy rock clubs where they are paired with The Ramones, Cheap Trick, Tom Petty and other 1970s rock acts.

Currie is initially thrilled to be in the band and lives the rock star life. But during a tour of Japan her personal life disintegrates and she burns out – ultimately leaving The Runaways when they return to the US. Jett decides rock ‘n’ roll is her life, and that The Runaways is her family. While Currie’s decision upsets her, part of her knows it’s what is best for her friend.