Penelope Spheeris

Directing

Penelope Spheeris

Born December 2, 1945 · New Orleans, Louisiana, USA (age 80)

Penelope Spheeris (born December 2, 1945) is an American director, producer and screenwriter. She is best known as a documentary film director whose works include the trilogy titled The Decline of Western Civilization.  She has also directed feature films, including Wayne's World, her highest grossing film.

Known For

The Little RascalsThe Little Rascals · 1994
The Little Rascals
★ 6.81994
MovieRomanceComedy
When nine-year-old Alfalfa falls for Darla, his "He-Man-Woman-Hating" friends attempt to sabotage their relationship.
Wayne's WorldWayne's World · 1992
Wayne's World
★ 6.71992
MovieComedyMusic
The adventures of two amiably aimless metal-head friends, Wayne and Garth. From Wayne's basement, the pair broadcast a talk-show called "Wayne's World" on local public access television. The show comes to the attention of a sleazy network executive who wants to produce a big-budget version of "Wayne's World"—and he also wants Wayne's girlfriend, a rock singer named Cassandra. Wayne and Garth have to battle the executive not only to save their show, but also Cassandra.
Black SheepBlack Sheep · 1996
Black Sheep
★ 6.11996
MovieComedy
When dignified Albert Donnelly runs for Governor, his team moves to keep his slow-witted and klutzy younger brother, Mike, out of the eye of the media. To baby-sit Mike, the campaign assigns sarcastic Steve, who gets the experience of a lifetime when he tries to take Mike out of town during the election.
The Beverly HillbilliesThe Beverly Hillbillies · 1993
The Beverly Hillbillies
★ 6.31993
MovieComedyFamily
Mild-mannered dirt-poor hill-dweller Jed Clampett strikes it rich when oil is discovered on his property. At cousin Pearl's insistence, he moves his family to Beverly Hills to better enjoy his newfound wealth.
The Boys Next DoorThe Boys Next Door · 1986
The Boys Next Door
★ 6.21986
MovieCrimeDrama
Roy and Bo leave their small town the weekend after graduation for a short road trip to LA. Soon, they find themselves lashing out and leaving a trail of bodies behind them. The violence escalates throughout.
SenselessSenseless · 1998
Senseless
★ 6.21998
MovieComedyRomance
A student gets his senses enhanced by an experimental drug. But abuse is not an option.
The Decline of Western CivilizationThe Decline of Western Civilization · 1981
The Decline of Western Civilization
★ 7.21981
MovieDocumentaryMusic
The Los Angeles punk music scene circa 1980 is the focus of this film. With Alice Bag Band, Black Flag, Catholic Discipline, Circle Jerks, Fear, Germs, and X.
The Decline of Western Civilization Part IIIThe Decline of Western Civilization Part III · 1998
The Decline of Western Civilization Part III
★ 6.91998
MovieDocumentaryMusic
A musical study of Los Angeles in the late 90s, where homeless teens roam the streets and profess to live a punk lifestyle of music, drugs, and flouting authority.

Filmography

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We Sold Our Souls for Rock 'n RollWe Sold Our Souls for Rock 'n Roll · 2001
We Sold Our Souls for Rock 'n Roll
★ 7.02001
MovieDocumentary
Penelope Spheeris presents an amazing chronicle of the travelling musical carnival known as OZZfest, the most successful summer concert tour for the last five years. Complete access to incredible material sends this documentary film into the realm of pure entertainment. Unforgettable moments from zealous religious protesters, outrageous fans and the guys (and girls) backstage provide an insightful view into the soul of white, middle-class America. A stunning and sometimes disturbing glimpse of a cultural movement, this film is sure to be a reference for historians for decades to come. This comment on Middle America skates the line between your worst nightmare and the best time you’ve ever had. Features interviews with, and performances by BLACK SABBATH, SYSTEM OF A DOWN, SLIPKNOT, PRIMUS, ROB ZOMBIE, GODSMACK and more.

Director