While Barry Kramer and Lester Bangs weren't available to be interviewed, viewers will see and hear everyone else that made Creem Magazine the rag to read about who was doing what (and to whom) in rock 'n' roll.
Like the magazine, the documentary is irreverent and passionate about its subject. While the director (Scott Crawford) grew up in the Washington, D.C. area, he understands the mid-western DIY ethos that enabled Creem Magazine (which was published in Detroit, not NYC, not LA) to go from nothing to something larger than life from the moment it began.
Actually, no Crawford doesn't just understand that DIY ethos. He owns it. He published his own 'zine on the DC hardcore scene when he just a kid and, with practically zero budget, directed the documentary, Salad Days.
But back to Creem and this documentary. The people who chose to work at the magazine (the writers, the editors, the publisher, the photographers, the assistants, the people who made sure it got to the printer) all had something to prove. And they sure didn't do it for the money. But these are the kind of people who have a story to tell. And they do it in this film. And so do people like Joan Jett, Wayne Kramer, Alice Cooper, Cameron Crowe and more.
Does it have a few imperfections? Sure. So did the magazine. Do these blemishes get in the way of enjoying the show? Maybe if you're the type that subscribes to Rolling Stone and thinks Jann Wenner's cool.
If you're a long-time fan of Creem Magazine, you'll not be disappointed. If you're new to the subject, you'll learn a lot and have fun at the same time. But why take my word for it? Watch the trailer. Or, better, watch the film.
