Swedish film-maker Jonas Åkerlund, known for his fascination with rock's wilder edges, directs a lavish documentary tribute to British postpunk icon Billy Idol. Titled "Billy Idol Should Be Dead," this film blends a humorous shrug at Idol's outrageous excesses with a warmly sympathetic portrayal of his life and career.
From Punk to Stardom
With a mix of luck and talent, Billy Idol rode the punk wave into new wave in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His gamble to move to the United States paid off when he caught the attention of MTV, the fledgling 24-hour music video channel hungry for content. MTV's embrace of self-destructive bad boys catapulted Idol to fame, making him a household name.
The documentary draws comparisons between Idol and legends like Elvis Presley, noting his distinctive snarl-sneer that echoes Eddie Cochran. Now 70 years old, Idol reflects on his life in a cheerfully gravelly voice, looking back on his badass era with a sense of nostalgia and humour.
Wild Excesses and Near Misses
Idol's insouciant persona, especially in TV interviews with American journalists who loved his Cockney accent, is highlighted. In one memorable exchange, when asked "How are you?" he replied, "Mmm, yeah, I've had some very heavy sex since I've been here."
However, his life was marked by dangerous excesses. He abused drugs with religious devotion, leading to a near-fatal overdose in 1984. A second severe episode in the late 1980s saw him collapse in a lift at a Bangkok hotel, horrifying Mel Gibson and his family who were waiting to use it.
Adding to his brushes with death, Idol almost lost a leg after crashing his Harley-Davidson in Los Angeles. He claims this accident ended his budding movie career, though it might have fizzled out regardless.
A Nostalgic Celebration
"Billy Idol Should Be Dead" serves as an enjoyable nostalgiafest, celebrating the rebel spirit of punk while acknowledging the high costs of Idol's lifestyle. The film's title underscores the miracle of his survival, given his many close calls.
This documentary offers a compelling look at a music legend who defied the odds, blending archival footage with candid reflections. It's a must-watch for fans of punk, rock history, and those intrigued by tales of rock'n'roll excess.
"Billy Idol Should Be Dead" airs on Sky Arts on 26 March, providing a timely tribute to an enduring icon of British music.
