DVD REVIEW FEATURE: ‘THE STORY OF ROCK N ROLL COMICS’

It may seem that Rock and Roll and comic-books are natural bed-fellows, with both being a staple part of youth culture for decades. However, the two had never been brought together so closely as with the launch of ‘Rock N Roll Comics,’ and their unauthorized comic-book biographies of artists such as Guns N Roses, Public Enemy, Frank Zappa, Queen, the Sex Pistols and even New Kids On The Block (to name just a few).

This film delves into the story of the controversial comics, as well as the man behind the phenomenon, Todd Loren. While some were charmed by the scandalous comic books, others fought against them, with a series of lawsuits that even changed the history of First Amendment rights in the U.S.

However, there is a dark end to the tale as Loren was found murdered in his home in 1992. The murder went unsolved but speculation says that he may have been the first victim of  Andrew Cunanan, the man who murdered Gianni Versace.

‘The Story Of Rock N Roll Comics’ delves into the history of the short-lived, yet controversial publications – as well as giving a nod to sister publications that dealt with a number of topics, from sports-stars to horror and conspiracy theories to adult themes. Including interviews and input from the artists and writers behind the actual comic-books, this film also features names like Alice Cooper, Mojo Nixon and Ian Shirley. In addition to this, ‘The Story Of Rock N Roll Comics’ brings together home-video footage of Loren himself being interviewed as well as interviews with his parents.

Having enraged The New Kids On The Block, Axl Rose of Guns N Roses, Bon Jovi and Skid Row the ground-breaking comic-book line eventually closed down, but it has left a legacy that lasts to this day, with original editions being traded among fans and reprints appearing in graphic novel form.

Available for the first time on DVD, this 2005 documentary film cleverly mixes animation with interviews and live footage to bring a true comic-book feel. While Todd Loren and his work certainly divided opinion, this DVD is not shy in showing both sides of the argument as well as including over two hours of bonus material, including extended interviews, original TV clips and ads, a cover-art gallery, and more.

Fascinating and informative, this DVD is a must-see for fans of both comic-books and popular music. The giants of Rock N Roll and comic-books had never before been brought together in such an engaging and controversial manner, and it seems unlikely that they ever will again. This superbly engaging DVD is the story of how it was done, the controversy it caused, and the man behind the movement.