Watch Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist

Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist is a documentary film from 2018 that chronicles the life and work of one of the world's most iconic and influential fashion designers, Vivienne Westwood. Directed by Lorna Tucker, the film provides a comprehensive look at the remarkable career of Westwood, who has been at the forefront of the fashion world for over 40 years.

The film delves deep into Westwood's early years, exploring her upbringing in Derbyshire and her early career in London in the 1960s. It shows how she began to experiment with fashion, taking inspiration from the punk and new wave movements that were sweeping the country at the time. We see how Westwood collaborated with her partner, Malcolm McLaren, to create the iconic punk band The Sex Pistols, designing their costumes and creating a distinctive visual style that became synonymous with the punk movement.

As the film progresses, we see how Westwood's career evolved beyond the punk scene. She continued to innovate, incorporating new materials and techniques into her designs and pushing the boundaries of what was considered fashionable. The film also explores the commercial side of Westwood's success, as she built a global brand and became a household name.

But Westwood's influence extends beyond just fashion. The film highlights her commitment to social and political activism, particularly in the areas of environmentalism and human rights. We see how she has used her platform to speak out on these issues, from appearing on protest marches to creating fashion collections with a political message.

Throughout the film, Westwood herself is a compelling presence. She is interviewed extensively, providing fascinating insights into her creative process and her passion for activism. We see her interacting with her family, colleagues, and fans, providing a glimpse into her personal life that is often overlooked in accounts of her career.

Interspersed throughout the documentary are archival footage, photographs, and animations that help to bring Westwood's story to life. The film also features interviews with a range of people who have been influenced by Westwood, from fashion insiders to politicians and activists.

Overall, Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist is a captivating portrait of one of the most unique and influential figures in fashion history. It offers a comprehensive look at Westwood's career, from her early days as a punk designer to her current status as a global icon. But beyond that, it reveals the human side of Westwood, showcasing her passion for activism and her unwavering commitment to using her platform to make a difference.

Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2 and a MetaScore of 64.