Quadrophenia (1979)
Questions to answer:
How was it received at the time?
A review written by a contemporary audience member, the author describes Quadrophenia as wholly relatable and realistic, really representing the changing attitudes and feelings of youth at the time.
"Back in '79 thanks to the movie of the same name Quadrophenia was back on the shelves and broadening the brief mod revival scene as it was peaking. I was a 15 year old mod discovering the album for the first time and as a lone mod girl in a school full of punks and skins, I related to Jimmy's story of the angst of youth, growing up and experiencing heartbreak and disappointment for the first time and the rebellious attitude of youth.
It became my story too."
(To be read)
How is it thought about now?
(General feedback statistics)
This review's central point of compliment is Quadrophenia's realism; "Against the backdrop of riots in 60's Brighton, Quadrophenia perfectly captures the teenage need to belong, and identify, with your peers."
The review cites the way in which Quadrophenia encumbers everything that is Mod-Culture and the 60's decade, from the misé en scene of the smart uniforms to the Who-influenced soundtrack which complements the protagonist, Jimmy's, actions; the effect being the film is wholly authentic and highly relatable. The drawback of this are that elements such as plot and deep characterisation get lost in the noise of the atmosphere created e.g. "The Ace Face". However, without the background, the appreciation of what these teenagers are doing, where they've come from and what they represent is hindered. The review ends with the author summarising "So, although Quadrophenia accurately invokes the Mod movement//it fails to tell the whole story."
Another modern day response to Quadrophenia is "Quadrophenia is a striking and evocative reminder of a bygone age when Britain was … well, basically exactly the same as it is now."
(To be read)
What influence has it had?
Showcases the type of climate the Mods and the Rockers thrived in and gives an apt portrayal of that time which future generations can look at and be inspired by or wanted against. It also preserves history and provides a sympathetic view of teenagers.
