A Decade-Old Punk Rock Movie That Taught a Generation of Girls Not to "Put Out"
In the 1980s, a wave of second-wave feminism swept across the US, promising equal rights and opportunities for women. But behind the scenes, reality was far more complex. The lives of young women were marked by poverty, exploitation, and sexism.
One film from this era stands out as a powerful critique of these issues: "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains." This forgotten cult classic tells the story of three young women who form a punk rock band to escape their dead-end town in Pennsylvania. As they tour the country, they face rejection, sexism, and violence - but also find empowerment and sisterhood.
The film's protagonist, Corinne (played by Diane Lane), is a 16-year-old waitress who becomes the lead singer of the Stains. Her motto "don't put out" takes on a double meaning as she navigates her relationship with a reporter covering their tour. But in the context of the 1980s, this phrase was more than just a slogan - it was a warning to women about the dangers of unwanted advances.
The film's depiction of middle America is precise and unglamorized. It shows the economic downturn that left many young people without opportunities or support. The Stains' struggles are all too relatable for audiences who grew up in similar circumstances.
Despite its critical acclaim, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" was never released theatrically due to a dispute between director Lou Adler and screenwriter Nancy Dowd over the film's ending. However, it has become a cult classic through repeated screenings on cable television and home video.
The film's impact can be seen in its influence on later generations of women in punk rock. Courtney Love has called it "the best film ever made," while members of Bikini Kill and Bratmobile have cited it as an inspiration for their own music and activism.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" is a powerful reminder that the struggles of young women in the 1980s were far from over. But through its raw performances and unflinching portrayal of reality, this forgotten film has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who came after.
In the 1980s, a wave of second-wave feminism swept across the US, promising equal rights and opportunities for women. But behind the scenes, reality was far more complex. The lives of young women were marked by poverty, exploitation, and sexism.
One film from this era stands out as a powerful critique of these issues: "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains." This forgotten cult classic tells the story of three young women who form a punk rock band to escape their dead-end town in Pennsylvania. As they tour the country, they face rejection, sexism, and violence - but also find empowerment and sisterhood.
The film's protagonist, Corinne (played by Diane Lane), is a 16-year-old waitress who becomes the lead singer of the Stains. Her motto "don't put out" takes on a double meaning as she navigates her relationship with a reporter covering their tour. But in the context of the 1980s, this phrase was more than just a slogan - it was a warning to women about the dangers of unwanted advances.
The film's depiction of middle America is precise and unglamorized. It shows the economic downturn that left many young people without opportunities or support. The Stains' struggles are all too relatable for audiences who grew up in similar circumstances.
Despite its critical acclaim, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" was never released theatrically due to a dispute between director Lou Adler and screenwriter Nancy Dowd over the film's ending. However, it has become a cult classic through repeated screenings on cable television and home video.
The film's impact can be seen in its influence on later generations of women in punk rock. Courtney Love has called it "the best film ever made," while members of Bikini Kill and Bratmobile have cited it as an inspiration for their own music and activism.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" is a powerful reminder that the struggles of young women in the 1980s were far from over. But through its raw performances and unflinching portrayal of reality, this forgotten film has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who came after.
. I mean, it's about time someone reminded people that even back in the 80s, women were still dealing with all sorts of crap. Like, don't get me wrong, it's a total classic and all that, but it's not like anyone who lived through that era wasn't aware of the struggles they faced 
. Still, I guess it's cool to see how much of an impact it had on later generations, especially in the punk rock scene 
. And honestly, can we just say goodbye to all the outdated phrases from back then? Like, "don't put out" is so played out 
.
A decade-old punk rock movie 
that still resonates with us today 
is "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains". I drew a simple diagram to represent its message: a woman (Corinne) standing strong in the face of adversity 
, while the two sides of her motto "don't put out" 
are represented by a broken chain 
(representing freedom) and a red "X" 
(representing danger). The film's portrayal of middle America's economic struggles is still relatable today 
. It shows how women, especially young ones, were forced to navigate a world that wasn't designed for them 
. Despite its cult status, the film's influence on later generations of women in punk rock cannot be overstated 
.
I'm literally so excited to see a movie like "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" getting the love it deserves! I mean, can you even imagine being part of that punk rock scene in the 80s? 
The film's all about women taking control and finding their own voice - and that's something we can all get behind! 
. And to think that a movie made 30+ yrs ago is still influencing new generations of artists and activists... that's just amazing 
. The fact that it's become a cult classic through repeat viewings on TV - it's like the film has found its own way into our hearts! 
. But what really resonates with me is how "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" humanizes these issues - it doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of life as a woman back then. And I love how Corinne's motto "don't put out" becomes this rallying cry for empowerment 
. I guess it's good that the film came out when it did, though... at least it gave a voice to all the other girls who were stuck in that same dead-end situation 
.
but what's even more impressive is how the film has inspired so many young women in punk rock today. it's like they're carrying on Corinne's legacy 
I'm not surprised it's a cult classic, though - this movie needs to be seen by anyone who cares about women's rights and social justice 
.
The fact that a film from 40 years ago can inspire women in punk rock to this day is just incredible. It's like the Stains' motto "don't put out" was always true - we've come so far, but there's still so much work to be done. 
. Have you seen "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" before? What did you think of it?
. But it's great that it's become a cult classic and has inspired so many women in punk rock. We need more movies like this, you know? 
but now I see how much more complicated it is for women in general. It's wild how this movie was made 30+ years ago but the issues are still so relevant today 
. And can we talk about Diane Lane's character Corinne? girl, she's a total rockstar 
The way the film shows these strong, independent women breaking free from societal expectations is everything 
The film's message about women supporting each other and taking control of their lives is still so relevant today 
More people should know about this cult classic, so let's all give it some love 
. The way it depicts the struggles of young women in the 80s, particularly those in rural areas, is so raw and honest it's almost uncomfortable to watch 
. And yet, it's not preachy or heavy-handed - it just tells a story that needs to be told.
. It reminds them that everyone faces challenges and that sometimes, the best way to overcome them is to find your voice and support each other. Plus, who wouldn't want to be part of a band like The Fabulous Stains? 
. And can we talk about how empowering it is to see women in punk rock finding their voice and sisterhood? It's amazing to see how this film has inspired later generations of women, including Courtney Love and the founders of Bikini Kill