The film creates a perfect balance between action and depth of basic needs, in the midst of an infertile atmosphere.

The movie's neither hopeful in contrived ways, nor hopeless in different contrived ways. Somehow it manages to be wonderful

Excellent characters with emotional depth. My wife, daughter and granddaughter all enjoyed it...and me, too! Very good movie! You won't be disappointed.

Strong acting helps the film overcome an uncertain premise and create characters that hold our attention absolutely.

Along with "Decline of Western Civilization," and (now) "American Hardcore," this is crucial viewing about early US DIY punk. What's weird is that neither Social Distortion's nor Youth Brigade's music has aged very well (Social Distortion being better known for their 1990s roots-punk), and Minor Threat, who are barely in the film, have become the definitive band of this scene. Nonetheless, the live footage of Social Distortion is interesting, because Mike Ness is so corny, and how inept the rest of the band is--he is just begging to be surrounded by ringers. Youth Brigade come across a bit better, slightly more tough, definitely more dedicated and principled: more suburban, but also less self-absorbed. The direction and production is not much to speak of, and the film is not edited for drama the way it would be now, rather telling a very simple story of things falling apart on tour. There are a dozen or so classic moments, the music is OK, and you get to see Mike Ness "get out and push" a bus.

Another state of mind is an excellent movie that shows the trails of life back in the 80's punk rock scene. It follows three punk bands (social Distortion, Youth Brigade and Minor Threat) on their North America tour in a broken down school bus. Their goal was not only spread the word of punk and their music, but also to promote themselves as So. Cal punks that aren't out to hurt anyone. I love this movie because it's not only real, but it shows a different side of the spectrum when it comes to people thinking punks were just bad kids that only cared about hurting the system and destroying the government. This movie will open your eyes to a new world that you wouldn't normal see and relate to as the 80's. It's has a more meaningful subtext then just a bunch of punks doing a bunch of shows.

I've basically watched this movie about once a year for the last 8 years or so. (Although calling it a "movie" isn't really correct...it's a documentary)It follows around Social Distortion and Youth Brigade on tour..basically. That's the best way to put it. And at times it cuts off and shows us these kids who go to punk rock shows, and live in the street, all that stuff...that stuff gets sort of boring, but everything with the bands is funny or just good to watch.Oh yeah, and we see some of Minor Threat in this movie, when they stay at their place...Just check it out.

Any fan of Social Distortion or Youth Brigade must see this. Documents the tour and lives of the band members and roadies. Great live footage and commentary.