In 1987, a rock band called The Blue Hearts recorded a song called Linda, Linda. I don't think there are that many Japanese people who don't know this song. It's been featured in video games, TV dramas, hundreds of karaoke rooms across the country, and, most recently, in a 2005 movie about an all-girls high school rock band called Linda, Linda, Linda.
I saw this movie this past spring, which is when it was released in the US. It combines high school drama, multiculturalism (the lead singer is a Korean foreign exchange student, played by popular Korean actress Bae Doona), and relentless work ethic as the 4 bandmates prepare for a performance at the annual school festival.
Most of the music from this cool film was composed by James Iha of the Smashing Pumpkins.
This video is an excerpt from the movie.
I watched this movie a few months ago with my friend. We both really liked it and I have the soundtrack now. It also spurred me to listen to The Blue Hearts. Thanks for sharing it with a larger audience, I hope it gets people interested.
Posted by: Jenanime | August 20, 2007 at 08:19 PM
Saw this at SFAAIFF in 2005. Loved it! The dynamic between the girls was very endearing and the characters were down to earth.
Posted by: nyankobrulee | August 20, 2007 at 10:08 PM
Where can I get this movie on video with some subtitles?! This looks amazing!!
Posted by: sachi0770 | August 21, 2007 at 10:51 AM
I saw this on Netflix and loved it. a great "Rock n Roll can save us from the high school doldrums" film, and a tribute to hard work and enthusiasm. I ended up getting the soundtrack too - a great way to get one motivated when one doesn't wanna do squat.
Posted by: Greg | August 22, 2007 at 06:10 PM
This played at the Japanese film festival in Vancouver recently. Fantastic acting, fantastic soundtrack, fantastic movie.
Posted by: PlayingKarrde | August 25, 2007 at 11:10 PM