Rock & Rule Revisited: A Neon Apocalypse Serenaded by Rock Gods

Ever stumbled upon a film that feels like a fever dream dipped in neon and blasted with power chords? That’s Rock & Rule, my friends. A Canadian animation oddity from 1983, it’s a heady cocktail of post-apocalyptic sci-fi, rock opera, and anthropomorphic animals with more attitude than a mosh pit full of porcupines.

A World Rebuilt on Rock and Ruin

Imagine a world where humans nuked themselves into oblivion, leaving the planet to the descendants of streetwise cats, dogs, and rats. These ain’t your cuddly Disney critters, though. They’re a motley crew of punks, rockers, and shady characters, all grooving to the beat of a world ruled by music and technology. The remnants of human civilization are mere backdrops to their neon-lit lives, a constant reminder of the folly of their predecessors.

Ohmtown, a city powered by a massive electrical plant, is our starting point. Here, we meet Omar, a talented but arrogant guitarist, and his bandmates: the sweet and supportive keyboardist Angel, the goofy drummer Stretch, and the easily-distracted bassist Dizzy. They’re young, they’re hungry, and they’re dreaming of rock stardom.

The Devil Went Down to Ohmtown

Enter Mok Swagger, the aging rock star with a face like a melted vinyl record and a voice like gravel gargling whiskey. He’s not just your average washed-up musician, though. Mok’s got a plan, a sinister plan involving ancient codes, interdimensional portals, and a demon with a taste for destruction. He’s tired of the music industry, tired of the fickle fans, and he’s ready to unleash his ultimate revenge on the world. All he needs is a voice, a special voice, to open the gateway to hell.

And guess who’s got the pipes? Angel, a sassy keyboardist with a voice like a siren and the heart of a rebel. Her voice possesses the unique frequency Mok needs to complete his dark ritual. He sets his sights on Angel, using his fame and fortune to lure her into his web of deceit.

A Psychedelic Journey to Nuke York

Mok whisks Angel away to his neon-drenched lair in Nuke York (yes, that’s the name) to use her voice for his apocalyptic symphony. But Omar and the gang ain’t giving up their bandmate without a fight. They embark on a desperate chase, following Mok’s trail through a landscape of bizarre nightclubs, psychedelic visuals, and electrifying music.

Their journey takes them through the underbelly of this strange new world, encountering a cast of eccentric characters along the way: a tattoo artist aunt with a heart of gold, a groupie with a penchant for hot dogs and sushi, and Mok’s trio of hulking henchmen, each with their own quirks and motivations.

A Soundtrack to Summon Demons By

The soundtrack is where Rock & Rule truly shines. Featuring original tracks by rock legends like Cheap Trick, Debbie Harry, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, and Earth, Wind & Fire, it’s a headbanging mixtape of 80s rock goodness. Each song is perfectly integrated into the narrative, driving the story forward and adding depth to the characters and their emotions. From the rebellious energy of “Born to Raise Hell” to the haunting beauty of “Angel’s Song,” the music becomes a character in itself, pulsating with the film’s unique energy.

Animation that Rocks the Boat

The animation, while sometimes rough around the edges, bursts with energy and creativity. It’s a visual feast of vibrant colors, trippy sequences, and expressive character designs. The animators weren’t afraid to experiment, blending traditional techniques with early CGI and rotoscoping to create a unique visual style that perfectly captures the film’s psychedelic atmosphere.

Mok, in particular, is a standout in terms of character design. With his angular features, piercing blue eyes, and flamboyant attire, he’s a villain who commands attention. He’s a rock star gone bad, a fallen angel with a taste for the demonic, and his visual presence reflects his dark intentions.

A Cult Classic for the Misfits

Rock & Rule is a film that defies easy categorization. It’s weird, it’s wild, it’s sometimes nonsensical, but it’s also undeniably unique and bursting with passion. It’s a testament to the ambition and talent of Nelvana, the Canadian animation studio that poured their hearts and souls into this project, even if it nearly bankrupted them in the process.

While it may not have been a box office smash, Rock & Rule has earned its place as a cult classic. It’s a film that speaks to the misfits, the rebels, the music lovers who appreciate its edgy spirit and unapologetic weirdness. It’s a film that dares to be different, to push the boundaries of animation and storytelling, and that’s something to be celebrated.