End of the Century: The Story of the Ramones (2004)

One Somber Tale Of One Great Musical Entity

By Michael T  May 1, 2005

Pros: This Highlights Achievements Despite Dysfunction

Cons: This Highlights Dysfunction Despite Achievements

Who knows what the outcome of Douglas "Dee Dee" Colvin; John Cummings; and Jeffrey "Joey" Hyman would have been if the Ramones were never to form? Despite the fact they indeed did in 1974 then create the foundation of the punk exp...losion with the release of its full length debut two years later- the Ramones would still personify tragedy throughout its existence. This band- despite relevant status as pioneers- would have to contend with one challenge after the next inherent in the hostile music industry due to restrictive formats from commercial radio entities as well the all too conservative taste of the audience such stations would service. Among other difficulties the Ramones would face in all its incarnations over its twenty two year period were (as one would guess) bouts with alcohol; drugs; and significant others each would entertain. "End Of The Century" will never temper your fanaticism for this band nor does this documentary attempt to do so. In fact your appreciation for the Ramones may expand because "End Of The Century" reminds us that despite such difficulty in addition to the occasional lapse into mediocrity this band- when at its best- were great and as such were an inspiration to the post modern/alternative movement now in effect. Also of interest is insight courtesy of Marc Bell; Tommy Erdelyi; Ritchie Beau Reinhardt; and "C.J." Ward who were also in the roster at various points. Perhaps the experience of the Ramones would in part usher the early demise of Colvin, Cummings, and Hyman, but without that formation as this collective musical force this story may have been much more tragic- and the pop music spectrum would have been without an essential element. God rest the souls of Dee Dee, Joey, and Johnny. Read more Less