Slits - Here To Be Heard: The Story Of The Slits is a riveting documentary that details the history, legacy, and influence of one of the pioneering bands of the punk rock era, The Slits. Directed by the U.S-born, UK-based filmmaker William E. Badgley, the film, released in 2017, is a layered tribute that celebrates not only the band's music but also their groundbreaking spirit and contribution to the cultural panorama.

The Slits, formed in the late 1970s in Britain, positioned themselves as one of the most seminal all-female bands in music history. Their music, a potent mix of punk, reggae, and experimental noise, broke the mold and defined the punk ethos and aesthetics in ways few could imagine at the time. The group was comprised of Ari Up (Ariane Forster), Palmolive (Paloma Romero), Viv Albertine, and Tessa Pollitt. Known for their unruly and rebellious demeanor, their in-your-face attitude, and their fervent dedication to female empowerment, The Slits ensured their place as bonafide punk rock icons and feminist symbols.

In Slits - Here To Be Heard: The Story Of The Slits, Badgley attempts to trace the band's journey and evolution. The film is structured in a narrative fashion employing a chronological cascading sequence. The film-making style aesthetically suits the anarchic spirit of the band. Offering a treasure trove of archival footage, band performances, behind-the-scenes shots, personal interviews, the documentary gets under the skin of the group, examining the highs and lows, trials, tribulations and victories, and the deep bonds of friendship and shared passion that underlined the group’s dynamics.

The documentary features interviews with the band members who discuss their experiences in their own words, candidly and wholeheartedly. They talk about their initial formation, the challenges they faced in an environment dominated by machismo and conservatism, their breakthrough moments, and their eventual tragic dissolution. The directors also shine a spotlight on Ari Up's son Wilton ‘Panda’ Taylor and filmmaker Don Letts, both of whom share their insights and reminiscing about the band's impact. These elements not only give us an intimate, inside look at the band but also help situate their relevance within the larger cultural and social context.

At its core, Slits - Here To Be Heard: The Story Of The Slits is a tribute to a band that refused to knuckle under societal pressure and expectations. They chose instead to pave their path and express their voice fearlessly. Their defiance of the rather rigid gender roles of the time garnered them a massive following and heavily influenced the Riot Grrrl movement which defined a generation. This is a band that lived and breathed punk rock in the truest sense, and this documentary does justice in bringing their story to life.

Slits - Here To Be Heard: The Story Of The Slits also touches upon some of the internal issues and struggles within the band, their clashes with the management, struggles with mental health, drug abuse, financial difficulties, and the pressured existence that sometimes comes with the rock and roll lifestyle. By being so upfront about these facets, the documentary adds more depth to its portrayal, making it a thorough and balanced representation of the band's trajectory.

The film doesn't shy away from discussing the tragic and untimely demise of the band's charismatic lead singer Ari Up, who passed away in 2010. Her story and her unrestrained spirit serve as the beating heart of the film, infusing it with an emotional pulse. Her larger-than-life persona, raw power on stage, and her refusal to adhere to conventional norms make her the quintessential punk icon and a figure of female empowerment.

Badgley's direction is commendable in its sensitive and respectful handling of the subject matter. Moreover, his knack for visual storytelling is evident in the vibrant and edgy aesthetic of the film, which is very much in sync with the band's persona.

In conclusion, Slits - Here To Be Heard: The Story Of The Slits is a must-watch for all music lovers, particularly those with a penchant for punk rock. It’s not just a run-of-the-mill music documentary; it’s a tribute that encapsulates the band's rich legacy, their audacious spirit, and their enduring influence on music and culture. Whether you're a loyal fan of The Slits or unfamiliar with their music, this documentary offers the chance to witness, appreciate and understand the story of the women who dared to be different, and in doing so, helped change the face of music forever.