Official Synopsis:
Gary Oldman (Batman Begins) and Chloe Webb (The Newton Boys) execute performances that are “nothing short of phenomenal” (Los Angeles Times) as Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious and his unforgettable junkie girlfriend – two social misfits who literally love each other to death. In this “riveting biography of burnt-out-icons” (The Washington Post), award-winning writer/director Alex Cox (Repo Man) creates “a great film” (Siskel & Ebert) about the destructive lives of two 1970s punk legends. Their love affair is one of pure devotion. Sid falls hard for groupie Nancy Spungen, who seduces him with her affection – and addiction to heroin. Their inseparable bond – to each other and their drugs – eventually corrodes the band, sending Sid & Nancy down a dark road of despair. Out of money, hope and options, the despondent two hit rock bottom while living in squalor at New York’s infamous Hotel Chelsea. But their journey takes yet another tragic turn as they face their final curtain – and attempt to fulfill their destiny of going out in a blaze of glory!
Our Take:
Sid & Nancy introduced the world to Gary Oldman and the world has been a better place since. Oldman’s Sid Vicious was spot on perfection. Everything about him was pure punk/junkie. Sid & Nancy could just as well be Kurt & Courtney for a generation. The film itself is what you expect and pretty much runs like a Vh1 Behind the Music, but keep in mind this film is from the 1980’s well before musicians’ lives became public. We haven’t seen much of Chloe Webb since the film, but Oldman has gone on to become one of this generation’s finest actors and this is the role that put him on the map.
Audio & Video:
The video transfer is pretty good, but not flawless. Again being an older film you can‘t expect perfection because it wasn‘t shot digitally, but the film does look good really showing the despair of Sid‘s life in England and New York. Audio quality is fantastic with the music of the Sex Pistols filling your room.
Special Features:
- For The Love Of Punk
- Junk Love
- Theatrical Trailer
Conclusion:
Sid & Nancy is a portrait of a punk rocker and the love of his life. Sure it’s about the rise and fall of Sid Vicious, but it’s also a love story at the center of it. No one really knows the truth other than the people in the hotel, but the story has gone on to become rock legend. Gary Oldman gives a tour de force performance which is the highlight of the film. If you haven’t seen it, check it out especially if you are a fan of Oldman’s.
Overall Picture:
Movie: B
Video: A-
Audio: A
Extra Features: B
