Give 'Em the Boot

Tim Armstrong --from the unfortunately-named rock group Rancid--directed this documentary compilation of performance footage, shot from 2000 to 2004, of bands on the Hellcat Records label. Not surprisingly, Rancid, one of the more musical and accomplished post-punk outfits, dominate (deservingly so) the film with fiery takes on "Ruby Soho," "As Wicked," "Old Friend," a fantastic acoustic version of the Stooges' classic "No Fun" (with Iggy Pop on vocals), and much more. Also on board is Tiger Army, with its lurching rhythms, the punk rockabilly of Nekromantix's "Gargoyles Over Copenhagen," U.S. Bombs' nostalgic blend of the Ramones' and Sex Pistols' sound on the self-titled "U.S. Bombs," and big, often unpleasant noises from the Transplants and F-Minus. One of the highlights is a performance by the late Joe Strummer, formerly of the legendary Clash and presented here with his group the Mescaleros (a too-short tribute to Strummer, including footage from a memorial in New York, appears toward the end). A smorgasbord of eclectic, visceral rock, this is recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh)