Trini Alvarado Films and Reviews | WhichFilm.com https://whichfilm.com Tue, 13 Jun 2023 21:58:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 https://whichfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/cropped-June23-Favi-32x32.png Trini Alvarado Films and Reviews | WhichFilm.com https://whichfilm.com 32 32 Times Square (1980) https://whichfilm.com/times-square-1980/ Tue, 13 Jun 2023 21:58:20 +0000 https://whichfilm.com/?p=11427 “Times Square” is a 1980 musical drama film directed by Allan Moyle and starring Trini Alvarado and Robin Johnson. Set in the gritty streets of New York City, the film tells the story of two teenage girls who form an unlikely friendship and embark on a rebellious adventure.

Plot Summary:
The film follows the lives of Nicky Marotta (Robin Johnson), a street-smart, punk-rock-loving girl, and Pamela Pearl (Trini Alvarado), a privileged, aspiring singer. The girls meet in a psychiatric hospital and quickly bond over their shared love for music and a desire to break free from societal constraints.

After escaping from the hospital, Nicky and Pamela find themselves living in an abandoned warehouse in Times Square. They form a punk rock band called “The Sleez Sisters” and start performing at illegal venues and causing havoc on the streets. As their music gains a following among disaffected youth, the girls become symbols of rebellion and empowerment.

However, their friendship is tested when Pamela’s conservative father, a prominent politician, tries to separate them and suppress their artistic ambitions. Nicky and Pamela must fight against the establishment and confront their own fears and insecurities to stay true to themselves and their music.

Themes and Impact:
“Times Square” explores themes of teenage rebellion, identity, and the power of music. The film captures the spirit of the punk rock movement of the late 1970s and early 1980s, highlighting the DIY ethos and the subversive nature of the genre. It also addresses issues of class, gender, and the struggle for self-expression in a society that tries to suppress individuality.

The performances in “Times Square” are notable, particularly the raw and energetic portrayal of Robin Johnson as the rebellious Nicky Marotta. The film features a soundtrack filled with punk and new wave music, featuring songs by bands like The Ramones, Talking Heads, and Lou Reed, further immersing the audience in the vibrant underground music scene of the time.

While “Times Square” received mixed reviews upon its release, the film has gained a cult following over the years, thanks to its portrayal of teenage rebellion and its infectious punk rock energy. It has become a beloved entry in the subgenre of coming-of-age films set against the backdrop of the vibrant New York City punk scene.

Conclusion:
“Times Square” is a spirited and rebellious musical drama that captures the essence of the punk rock movement and the struggle for self-expression. With its energetic performances, memorable soundtrack, and gritty depiction of New York City, the film remains a cult favorite among fans of punk culture and 1980s cinema. “Times Square” stands as a testament to the power of music and friendship in overcoming societal barriers and embracing individuality.

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