Catch ‘Fanny: The Right to Rock’ documentary at this WA festival

Photo from Fanny: The Right to Rock/Facebook

Music enthusiasts and documentary lovers are in for a treat at the Bainbridge Island Film Festival in Washington as the critically acclaimed documentary “Fanny: The Right to Rock” takes center stage, unraveling the incredible journey of a Filipino-American garage band that transformed into the powerhouse rock group Fanny.

Set against the backdrop of the Island Center Hall on Sept. 23 at 11:30 a.m. and the Lynwood Theatre on Sept. 24 at 4:15 p.m., this documentary takes you on a musical odyssey of the band that were poised to become the female Beatles of their era.

Fanny was co-founded in California 50 years ago by Filipina American and queer teenagers. They etched their place in history by becoming the first all-women band to release an album with a major record label, Warner/Reprise, in 1970. Their songs tackled themes far ahead of their time, including sexual freedom, war, relationships, and identity.

Despite grappling with obstacles like misogyny and bigotry, Fanny managed to produce Top 40 hits and five albums between 1970 and 1974. Their fanbase even included rock icon David Bowie, who hailed them as “one of the most important female bands in American rock.”

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The documentary, directed and produced by American-Canadian filmmaker Bobbi Jo Hart, dives deep into the band’s history where it addresses issues such as racism, sexism, and feminism.

Featuring archival footage, rare performances, and interviews with musicians who laud Fanny’s significant contribution to rock music, the film is a must-see for enthusiasts of music, history, and the indomitable spirit of perseverance.