We Were Famous, You Don't Remember: The Embarrassment

Synopsis

We Were Famous, You Don't Remember: The Embarrassment is a captivating documentary that delves into the life and career of Bill Goffrier, the frontman of the influential indie rock band The Embarrassment. Released in 2023, this film explores the rise, fall, and enduring legacy of the band in the context of the 1980s American underground music scene. With rich archival footage and intimate interviews, the documentary reveals how The Embarrassment carved out a unique identity despite never achieving mainstream fame. It’s a heartfelt celebration of artistic passion, the challenges of navigating the music industry, and the impact of overlooked artists on contemporary music culture.

Cast

• Bill Goffrier

  Himself

• Brent "Woody" Giessmann

  Himself

• John Nichols

  Himself

• Ron Klaus

  Himself

• Evan Dando

  Himself

• Grant Hart

  Himself

Reviews

Critics have generally praised We Were Famous, You Don't Remember: The Embarrassment for its thoughtful portrayal of an underappreciated band and its insightful exploration of indie music history. On IMDb, the film holds a solid rating of 8.0/10, reflecting strong viewer appreciation. The documentary has been lauded for its authentic and heartfelt narrative, with several critics highlighting Bill Goffrier’s candid interviews as a cornerstone of the film’s emotional appeal. Rotten Tomatoes critics appreciate the film's ability to blend nostalgia with a fresh perspective, noting it offers much more than a typical rockumentary. Metacritic ratings also reflect favorable reviews, underlining the film's engaging storytelling and nuanced approach to subject matter. However, some reviewers mention that the film's niche appeal might not connect with general audiences unfamiliar with indie rock history, describing it as a deeply personal film that serves best those interested in music subcultures. Overall, the documentary is recognized as a beautifully crafted homage that both music fans and documentary enthusiasts can appreciate.