Director Danny Boyle launched his distinctive visual style in 1996 with Trainspotting and he’s in top form for this new series. It’s based on guitarist Steve Jones’ memoir “Lonely Boy: Tales from a Sex Pistol” and examines the rise and fall of the notorious punk band in 70s London. The creation of the group was spawned by the raucous political climate of the period and the undeniably disruptive influence of Malcolm McLaren, who shaped their image. The performances are gritty, raw and wonderful, esp. Thomas Brodie-Sangster as the eccentric manager and Anson Boon as Johnny Rotten. Thanks to Boyle, there’s an energy that fills each episode with personality clashes and riotous recreations of their songs. Boyle’s hyperactive, grungy style creates beautiful dreamlike imagery in saturated colors. The excitement of the period and the band infuses every episode with unruly, unabashed punk pleasure. (Six hour-long episodes) 
(5 / 5)
