CBGB (2013)
The untold story of the legendary New York club that accidentally launched punk rock and changed music forever.
CBGB - Movie Information
- Original Title: CBGB
- Release Year: 2013
- Directed by: Randall Miller
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Music
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 41m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 27, 2014 (Greece - K-18), January 19, 2015 (Brazil - 16)
- Production Companies: Rampart Films, Unclaimed Freight Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
CBGB - Plot
A look at New York's dynamic punk rock scene through the lens of the ground-breaking Lower East Side club started by eccentric Hilly Kristal in 1973 which launched thousands of bands.
CBGB - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a taste of the punk rock chaos:
50,000 bands and 1 disgusting bathroom.
Where to Watch CBGB
Looking for where to watch CBGB?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
CBGB - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Randall Miller
Main Cast
- Alan Rickman
- Rupert Grint
- Malin Åkerman
- Johnny Galecki
- Stana Katic
- Ashley Greene
- Justin Bartha
- Ryan Hurst
- Kyle Gallner
- Taylor Hawkins
Writers
- Randall Miller
- Jody Savin
Producers
- Randall Miller
- Brad Rosenberger
- Jody Savin
CBGB - FAQs
What is CBGB about?
CBGB tells the story of Hilly Kristal and the legendary New York club he opened in 1973 on the Lower East Side. The film traces how CBGB became the unlikely birthplace of punk and new wave, nurturing acts like Blondie, the Talking Heads, Patti Smith, and the Ramones before the world had any idea who they were.
Is CBGB based on a true story?
Yes, CBGB is rooted in real history. The club actually existed at 315 Bowery in Manhattan from 1973 until it closed in 2006. Hilly Kristal was a real person, and the musicians depicted — Debbie Harry, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, and others — genuinely launched their careers on that iconic stage.
Where can you stream CBGB right now?
CBGB is available on several platforms. You can watch it for free on Tubi TV, Pluto TV, The CW, Kanopy, Hoopla, Plex, and Fawesome. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Amazon Prime Video subscribers can stream it as part of their plan.
Who plays Hilly Kristal in CBGB?
Alan Rickman takes on the role of Hilly Kristal, the eccentric, dog-loving visionary behind CBGB. It's a warm and offbeat performance that captures Kristal's stubborn idealism and his almost accidental role in shaping one of the most important chapters in rock history.
Who are the main actors in CBGB?
The film boasts a fun ensemble cast. Alan Rickman leads as Hilly Kristal, with Rupert Grint as Cheetah Chrome, Malin Åkerman as Debbie Harry, Johnny Galecki as Terry Ork, Stana Katic as Genya Ravan, Ashley Greene as Lisa Kristal, Justin Bartha as Stiv Bators, Kyle Gallner as Lou Reed, and Taylor Hawkins as Iggy Pop.
Does CBGB use a comic book visual style?
It does! CBGB incorporates a distinctive comic book aesthetic throughout, using illustrated panels and graphic novel-style sequences to tell parts of the story. This unconventional visual approach reflects the raw, DIY spirit of the punk scene the film celebrates and gives it a uniquely energetic feel.
How was CBGB received by critics?
Critical reception was mixed. Many reviewers praised Alan Rickman's charming central performance and the film's infectious enthusiasm for its subject, but some felt the episodic, scattershot structure prevented it from fully capturing the era's depth. Fans of the music and the club's history tend to find it an enjoyable, affectionate tribute.
What movies are similar to CBGB?
If you enjoyed CBGB, you might also like SLC Punk! (1998) for its punk subculture energy, Cadillac Records (2008) for its music-history drama format, Basquiat (1996) for its New York underground art scene setting, or Begin Again (2014) for a more contemporary music-world story with a similar indie spirit.
More About CBGB
Explore further details and official listings for CBGB below.