Documentary,Music
United Kingdom
Poly Styrene: I Am a Cliché is a documentary that explores the life and legacy of Marianne Joan Elliott-Said, better known as Poly Styrene, the lead singer of the legendary British punk band X-Ray Spex. The film, which is directed by the singer's daughter, Celeste Bell, and filmmaker Paul Sng, chronicles the life of the punk icon from her upbringing in post-war London to her untimely death from cancer in 2011.
The documentary features a mix of personal interviews with family and friends, archival footage of X-Ray Spex's performances, and dramatic re-enactments of Poly's life. The film also delves into Poly's personal life, including her struggles with mental health and her decision to leave the music industry to pursue a more spiritual path.
Through the lens of Celeste, who discovers her mother's diaries and personal belongings after her death, the film explores Poly's legacy as a feminist icon and a trailblazer in the punk music scene. The documentary also touches on larger themes of identity, racism, and the power of music to create change.
Overall, Poly Styrene: I Am a Cliché is a loving portrait of a woman who defied convention and paved the way for future generations of female musicians. It is a moving tribute not only to Poly Styrene's legacy, but also to the enduring power of punk rock.
