Rage Against The Machine frontman Zack de la Rocha has taken on the role of executive producer for an upcoming documentary about the notorious Los Angeles DIY punk band Dead City Punx.
Directed by Roger Gastman—who also serves as an executive producer alongside Joseph Pattisall—the film chronicles the chaotic and confrontational rise of the band during the pandemic. The four-piece outfit, consisting of members Meka, Grumpy, Mike, and Adrian, built a reputation by staging unauthorized, politically charged outdoor shows. Their performances frequently featured bonfires, graffiti, and fireworks, often resulting in direct clashes with the LAPD and local government.
In the film’s newly released trailer, one band member explains their uncompromising attitude:
“From the beginning, I was like, ‘Bro, we’re going to make a band that is going to be like a line in the sand. Sick a** fools are going to f**k with us, and b**ch a** motherf**kers are not going to feel us.”
According to the official logline, the documentary utilizes fan-shot concert footage and exclusive interviews to document a movement that:
“captures how four outcasts from society’s margins ignited a pandemic-era music movement that challenged definitions of public space, rebellion, and the right to assemble”
The documentary is scheduled to make its world premiere on April 16 at The Regent Theater in Los Angeles, California. The event will feature two separate screenings:
- 7:30 p.m. Screening: Includes a special DJ set by Keith Morris of the Circle Jerks.
- 9:30 p.m. Screening: Features an unannounced surprise guest.
While Rage Against The Machine remains inactive and guitarist Tom Morello largely serves as the public face of the band’s legacy, Zack de la Rocha has maintained a lower profile. However, his alignment with Dead City Punx—who recently staged an anti-ICE protest show outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in February—fits his lifelong dedication to political activism.
Last year, Zack de la Rocha resurfaced to support a benefit shirt campaign raising funds for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights. He also made an appearance in the documentary “Intense Energy: The Sound Of Skateboarding.”
