Punk's Not Dead: new documentary celebrates 50 years of rebellion at Leigh Film Factory

Fifty years after Punk exploded onto Britain's streets, stages and television screens, a new documentary coming to Leigh Film Factory asks a simple question: what does Punk mean today?

Vive Le Punk, screening on Thursday July 10 at 7.30pm, marks the 50th anniversary of the movement that transformed British music and culture.

Directed by Danny Garcia, the film follows four legendary bands that are still performing and carrying the Punk spirit into the 21st century: Sham 69, 999, Ruts DC and The Boys.

Featuring exclusive interviews, rare archive footage, live performances and behind-the-scenes access, the documentary explores how these pioneering artists have remained active, relevant and connected to the rebellious ideals that first inspired them.

The film also features contributions from some of Punk's most influential figures, including Charlie Harper of UK Subs, Punk entrepreneur Joe Corré, poet Dr John Cooper Clarke, Gaye Advert of The Adverts and author and DJ Chris Sullivan.

Rather than simply looking back at Punk's glory days, Vive Le Punk examines whether the movement's message still resonates in a world facing many of the same challenges that inspired its birth. Questions of inequality, social division and political frustration remain as relevant as ever, prompting the film to ask whether Punk's anti-establishment spirit still has something to say to a new generation.

For Leigh Film Factory, the screening continues a growing programme of music documentaries that celebrate not just the music itself, but the communities and cultures that grew around it.

The venue recently screened Northern Soul: Still Burning, with one final screening still to come on Sunday 14th June, and plans to continue bringing music-focused films to local audiences.

"Music documentaries often tell much bigger stories than the artists themselves," said Leigh Film Factory's Kevin Lowe.

"Whether it's Northern Soul, Punk, folk music or rock and roll, these films explore communities, identities and movements that continue to influence people today.

“They work particularly well on the big screen because they're often packed with incredible archive footage and fantastic music."

For Punk fans, music lovers and anyone interested in one of Britain's most influential cultural movements, Vive Le Punk offers a chance to revisit the past while considering what Punk's legacy means in 2026.

Vive Le Punk screens at Leigh Film Factory on Friday 10th July at 7:30pm.

Tickets are available now from www.leighfilmfactory.com.