So, which band is your boyfriend in?

So, which band is your boyfriend in? is an intriguing and insightful documentary film from 2018 directed by Suzy Harrison. It features Caz Adcock, Ren Aldridge, and Sarah Bentham, among others, each offering their unique perspectives on matters at the core of the film's narrative.

The title is a witty play on a question that many female musicians have probably found themselves being asked routinely. It underlines the societal tendency to reduce female musicians' contributions to a mere adjunct of their male counterparts' work, a bias that permeates even the presumably progressive spaces of music scenes like punk and indie. The exploration of female experiences within the male-dominated industry forms the central narrative thread of the film.

The documentary presents a stiff critique of gender biases prevalent in the UK's DIY (Do It Yourself), punk, and indie music scenes through interviews and discursive snippets with female musicians, promoters, and fans. The film is not only a compelling watch for music enthusiasts but an essential eye-opener for any individual interested in understanding the nuances of gender dynamics in creative and artistic spaces.

Caz Adcock, Ren Aldridge, and Sarah Bentham share their experiences and narratives in the music scene. Through their personal stories and anecdotes, the film scrutinizes the issues faced by them, predominantly the challenges and hindrances a woman encounters in establishing a significant presence in the music world. The film emphasizes the need for more inclusivity and the acknowledgment and appreciation of women's contributions to music, irrespective of their relationship status, wardrobe choice, or physical appearances.

The film's intimate approach is reinforced by an artistic emphasis on backstage footage, casual interviews, and fly-on-the-wall scenes that allow viewers a glimpse into the lives, battles, and celebrations of these talented and dedicated musicians. In doing so, the director, Suzy Harrison, creates an engaging and accessible end product that resonates deeply with its viewers.

Ren Aldridge, the lead vocalist of the punk band Petrol Girls, brings a unique rawness and intensity to the film. Her outspoken views on issues like sexism, ableism, and harassment within the music industry make a strong case for much-needed change. Caz Adcock, a musician herself, excellently uses her platform to highlight the struggles faced by female artists in a male-dominated environment and emphasizes the need for change. This commentary is complemented by Sarah Bentham, a tireless promoter for equality in the industry, who helps bring these issues to light via different perspectives.

The film is not a bland critique but focuses on creating progressive conversations, encouraging more inclusive music environments, and urging spectators to question ingrained societal norms. The interviews are pointed and thought-provoking. The film expertly encapsulates its outrage, passion, and determination to shift mindsets.

What makes 'So, which band is your boyfriend in?' a notable piece of cinema is primarily its stellar narrative and the rich, diverse voices brought to the forefront. Furthermore, credit must be given to its balanced portrayal, which does not shy away from weighing the positive advancements concerning representation and inclusion, alongside showcasing the existent gender biases within the music scene. It is an unfiltered chronicle of individual experiences narrated openly, talking about an issue that deserves a global audience for its universal resonance.

The cinematic language of the documentary is direct, raw, and sincere, and the music within the film complements and amplifies the central themes explored in it. The film maps the complexities of navigating through a creative field like music while being a woman, and it does so compellingly and with utmost honesty.

In conclusion, 'So, which band is your boyfriend in?' is a bold, empathetic examination of womanhood in the music industry that gradually shifts gears from being a documentation of individual journeys to an illuminating commentary on a systemic issue that extends far beyond the confines of the music space. This documentary film is not just a viewing experience; it's an insightful journey that leaves its viewers provoked, enlightened, and determined to challenge biases and preconceived notions.