A Sardonic Movie Love Letter to Pavement
The Pitch: A Cult Icon’s Journey
In the late ’80s, Stockton, California became a breeding ground for musical experimentation. Enter Stephen Malkmus and his quirky partner Scott Kannberg, two audacious souls who weren’t just fooling around—they were crafting a sound that would eventually define the alternative rock scene. With a dash of lo-fi charm and a smattering of unconventional ideas, they transformed into Pavement, a band that has forever altered the landscape of indie rock.
Fast forward to 2025, and they are celebrated—perhaps even mythologized—as one of the most influential bands of the ’90s. Yet the question persists: Did they ever capture the mainstream spotlight like their contemporaries, such as the Smashing Pumpkins? The answer is complex, and that’s the narrative director Alex Ross Perry embarks upon in his latest creation, Pavements.
A Multifaceted Film Experience
More Than a Rockumentary
Pavements is anything but a straightforward documentary. It interlaces the fabric of several genres: a rockumentary filled with archival footage, a behind-the-scenes peek at the live-action adaptation of the Pavement jukebox musical Slanted! Enchanted!, and an amusing tour vlog highlighting their 2022 reunion tour. It even features a satirical spin with the Hollywood biopic, a plot twist that keeps viewers on their toes.
How does it manage this intricate dance? Surprisingly well. Through a kaleidoscope of memories and experiences, we oscillate between the past and present, diving into both the youthful exuberance of early Pavement and the mature reflections of their later work. Unique touches, such as shifting aspect ratios and split-screen presentations, create an engaging viewing experience that’s both smooth and captivating.
A Charm That Never Overstays Its Welcome
Among the diverse storylines, the development of the Slanted! Enchanted! musical feels a bit thin, despite its novelty. A fleeting glimpse into the production process and interviews with performers—who candidly admit to their ignorance of the band prior to auditioning—leave it feeling less substantial compared to the film’s more robust narratives. Fortunately, Perry doesn’t linger here long; he swiftly transitions back to the essence of what made Pavement resonate.
Navigating Sarcasm and Sincerity
What truly distinguishes Pavements is its tone—an intricate blend of sarcasm and genuine emotion. The film astutely portrays Pavement as a paradox, marked by artistic decisions that often seemed intent on avoiding mainstream success. This is illustrated in clips of their famously irreverent performance of “Cut Your Hair” on The Tonight Show, alongside anecdotes about their tumultuous relationship with other bands and their refusal of lucrative syndication opportunities.
Yet beneath the surface, there lies an earnest desire to reach as many listeners as possible. The mythos surrounding their punk attitude and the internal contradictions they faced contribute significantly to their legacy. Perry deftly embraces these contradictions, laying out a narrative that feels both whimsical and heartfelt.
Capturing the Magic of a Cult Classic
Perry’s goal is not to validate a definitive version of Pavement’s story, but rather to revel in the indescribable magic that has sustained their cult following. By satirizing parts of their journey, particularly in the mock biopic Range Life, the director crafts a sense of paranoia that permeates throughout the film. Audiences are left questioning what is real, mirroring the complexities of Pavement’s own history.
The Verdict: A Coalescence of Cool
From start to finish, Pavements seeks to showcase why this band is “the most important band in the world.” By the credits, even the most casual of fans may find themselves enchanted by the band’s mystique. The aesthetics, the narrative, and the catchy tunes create an experience that is simultaneously cool and deeply resonant.
In its essence, Pavements is a unique exploration of what a rockumentary can be, satisfying legions of fans while celebrating the band’s elusive charm. It manages to weave together threads of humor, history, and heartfelt homage, striking the perfect chord for those who have never adhered to conventional notions of perfection.
Where to Watch
Pavements will return to theaters for a limited run starting June 6th and will be available to stream on Mubi later this year. Don’t miss your chance to experience a film that’s as endearing and eccentric as the band it celebrates!
