Kathleen Hanna Biopic

about the project and casting

Kathleen Hanna’s presence in the punk scene of the 90s was more than just musical; it was a roar of rebellion and feminism. Her band Bikini Kill became synonymous with the raw energy and defiance of the era, their anthems like “Rebel Girl” and “Double Dare Ya” still echoing with power today. But what shaped this transformative voice?

In her candid and revealing memoir, “Rebel Girl,” Hanna takes us on a journey from her turbulent upbringing to the pivotal moments of her early career. Being a part of a punk “girl band” in those times wasn’t just about making music; it was a constant battle against male violence and hostility. Yet, through sheer determination, she persisted.

Supported by her bandmates Tobi Vail, Kathi Wilcox, JD Samson, and Johanna Fateman, as well as friendships with icons like Kurt Cobain, Ian MacKaye, Kim Gordon, and Joan Jett, Hanna found solace and strength in the punk community. She recounts her experiences, from falling in love with Ad-Rock of the Beastie Boys to her struggles with Lyme disease, offering a raw glimpse behind the scenes of her musical evolution with bands like Le Tigre and The Julie Ruin.

Hanna’s narrative is unfiltered and uncompromising, shedding light on both the highs and lows of her journey. She delves into the complexities of the Riot Grrrl movement, celebrating its grassroots origins while acknowledging its flaws. Through it all, she emerges as a beacon of resilience, her revolutionary art and music fueled by both her hardest moments and her greatest joys.

As her story unfolds on the pages of “Rebel Girl,” one can’t help but imagine the potential for a cinematic exploration of Hanna’s life—a film that captures the essence of her defiance, her passion, and her unwavering commitment to her art.