The Decline of Western Civilization is a seminal documentary film directed by Penelope Spheeris. The film is a candid exploration of the early Los Angeles punk rock scene, which was exploding with energy and creativity at the time the film was made. The film features interviews and concert footage with several of the most influential punk bands of the era, including Alice Bag Band, Black Flag, Catholic Discipline, Circle Jerks, Fear, Germs, and X.
The film is divided into three distinct parts, with each part focusing on a different aspect of the punk scene. The first part focuses on the more traditional, Ramones-style punk bands and their fans. The second part looks at the more political and experimental art-punk scene. The third part provides a glimpse into the heavy-metal inspired punk scene, which was dominated by the band Fear.
The film caused controversy upon its release, with some critics accusing Spheeris of glorifying violence and nihilism. However, many fans of punk rock praised the film for its honesty and its ability to capture the spirit of the scene. The Decline of Western Civilization has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the most important documentaries of its era.