(United States, 1982, 93 minutes, color, Rated R)

Directed by Susan Seidelman

Starring Susan Berman, Brad Rijn, Richard Hell

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An enduring cult favorite, Susan Seidelman’s 1982 breakout film follows the exploits of a restless young woman in her pursuit of punk rock stardom. ​

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Seidelman's bleak and darkly comedic look at New York City's downtown Bohemian scene of the 1980s, -- with a soundtrack that includes the Feelies and Richard Hell & the Voidoids -- was shot on 16mm for $40,000 on location, at times "guerrilla style" on the streets and in the gritty subways of New York.

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"Smithereens" captured the feel of the post-punk music scene and made history as the first U.S. indie film to be nominated for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The success of "Smithereens" paved the way for Seidelman's "Desperately Seeking Susan."

 

Join us for a conversation with director Susan Seidelman at the Albany Film Festival on Saturday, March 29, following a screening of her 1985 hit film, "Desperately Seeking Susan," starring Rosanna Arquette and Madonna— exactly 40 years to the date of its release.