Backdrop preview Looking for Johnny backdrop
Looking for Johnny

Looking for Johnny (2014)

Jun 01, 2014 1h 34m Documentary

Johnny Thunders was the legendary hard-living rock'n'roll guitarist who inspired glam-metal, punk and the music scene in general. 'Looking For Johnny' is a 90-minute film that documents Thunders' career from his beginnings to his tragic death in 1991. The film examines Johnny Thunders' career from the early 70's as a founding member of the influential New York Dolls; the birth of the punk scene with The Heartbreakers in New York City and London; Gang War and The Oddballs. It also explores Johnny's unique musical style, his personal battle with drugs and theories on his death in a New Orleans hotel in 1991 at age 38. The film includes forty songs with historic film of Johnny, including unseen New York Dolls and Heartbreakers footage and photos. Cult filmmakers Bob Gruen, Don Letts, Patrick Grandperret, Rachael Amadeo and others contribute classic archive footage.

Directed by Danny Garcia

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Danny Garcia
Writer
  • Danny Garcia
Producer
  • Danny Garcia

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

Looking for Johnny represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Danny Garcia brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Looking for Johnny took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 264 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2014, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Looking for Johnny shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Dont Look Back, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Looking for Johnny offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Shine a Light and 1:1 Thierry Henry explore similar territory, Looking for Johnny stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 1, 2014
  • Runtime: 1h 34m

Where to Watch

Night Flight Plus

Similar Movies