About CBGB

CBGB is an American biographical drama film released in 2013. The movie showcases the rise of the iconic New York music venue, 'CBGB' and its significance in launching underground punk-rock bands into mainstream music. The club, run by Hilly Kristal, becomes famous for hosting notable bands that pioneered punk and new wave music, including The Ramones, Blondie, and Talking Heads.

Making / Production

Directed by Randall Miller, this film was brought to life by writers Jody Savin and Randall Miller. It sought to capture the essence and spirit of the punk-rock era by focusing on the venue that housed its revolutionary sound. Shooting took place primarily in Savannah, Georgia, with recreations of CBGB’s vivid and iconic interiors.

Actors

• Alan Rickman: He played Hilly Kristal, the founder of CBGB. He splendidly portrayed the character's persistence and passion for music.
• Malin Akerman: She portrayed Debbie Harry, offering a convincing act as the Blondie lead singer with a tenacious spirit.
• Joel David Moore: He portrayed Joey Ramone and effectively embodied the eccentric and iconic image of the musician.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film's set was recreated in Savannah, Georgia, where an exterior set for the street was built to match the 1970s Bowery in New York City.
• Foos Fighter's drummer, Taylor Hawkins, appeared in the film as Iggy Pop, while musician-actor Rupert Grint played Cheetah Chrome.
• The film made its premiere at the CBGB Music & Film Festival in October 2013.

Quotes

• "In life, you can't control what happens to you, you can only control how you handle it" - Hilly Kristal.
• "For me, punk is about real feelings. It's not about, 'Yeah, I am a punk and I'm angry.' That's a lot of crap. It's about loving the things that really matter: passion, heart, and soul" - Joey Ramone.

Music and Soundtrack

• The movie features the groundbreaking rock music that was regularly played at CBGB, reviving the highly-charged atmosphere of the era.
• Songs from bands that played at CBGB, such as Television's "Careful," the Dead Boys' "All This and More," and Blondie's "Sunday Girl" are featured in the film.
• A soundtrack album was also released in conjunction with the film, including tracks from Talking Heads, Blondie, Television, and more.