Gimme Danger

An important addition to our understanding of early '70s anarchy.

Chronologically charts the chaotic rise, fall and reunion of shirtless Iggy Pop and his grungy, volatile crew of iconoclastic Michigan punks who wowed the critics but disappointed the record companies.

A brainy and funny look at the creation and still-evolving legacy of a rock 'n' roll band Jarmusch considers the greatest of all time, even if RollingStone and snobby critics won't admit it.

Those who know every shred of the band's story will find the film a cool reminder of what the Stooges meant to rock 'n' roll. Those who know little of their music will find Pop an interesting and forthcoming individual.

Iggy Pop, the band's front man and the only member to graduate to a solo career, is a source of endless hilarity as he recalls the band's grungy beginnings and lurching journey through the music business.

Gimme Danger is more than carried by the colourfulness of its story and characters, and by the bold essay-like thesis that The Stooges -- now firmly ensconced in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame -- were the greatest rock band of all time.

Despite all the hardships, the film is enchanting as a tale of people who, for the most part, did what they loved, and in some cases are still doing it.

In what proves a primer and a tribute combined, it's the obvious affection and the unexpected moments alike that give Gimme Danger its entertaining edge.

Iggy is the star of the show. He comes across, still lean and long-haired and handsome (and almost fully clothed), as intelligent, caring -- and still vexed by what he sees as the corporate corruption of rock 'n' roll in the 70s.

It took a while, but the world eventually caught up with the Stooges. What a difference 40 years can make.

Gimme Danger demonstrates reverence for a one-of-a-kind collective of musicians.