THE GITS
THE GITS - 20th anniversary edition
BY Kerri O'Kane, 2024
Catalog Number: FTF-172
Length: 79 minutes
In 2025, The Gits returns with a 20th Anniversary Edition, reigniting the powerful legacy of one of punk rock’s most urgent and underrecognized bands. This gripping documentary traces the meteoric rise of The Gits and their magnetic frontwoman, Mia Zapata — whose fearless voice and raw presence left an indelible mark on the Seattle music scene before her life was tragically cut short in 1993.
Featuring electrifying live performances, rare archival footage, and candid interviews with bandmates, peers, and friends like Joan Jett, Kathleen Hannah, members of 7 Year Bitch and more, The Gits delivers an intimate and unflinching portrait of a band whose sound captured both ferocity and vulnerability. Rather than framing Zapata solely as a tragic figure, the film celebrates her as a visionary artist whose voice still resonates more than three decades later.
With amplified visuals, rare audio, and a renewed urgency in its message, The Gits is more than a documentary — it’s a timeless testament to artistic legacy, community, and resilience.
Directed by Kerri O'Kane
Produced by Jessi Bender, Danny Goldberg
Cinematography by Sean Kirby
Featuring: Mia Zapata, Steve Moriarty, Matt Dresdner, Andrew Kessler, Kathleen Hannah, Joan Jett
Music by The Gits, The Seven Year Itch, The Dancing Liberals of 48 with Joan Jett
Festivals: SXSW Film Festival, Calgary International Film Festival, Seattle International Film Festival,Edmonton International Film Festival, Port Townsend Film Festival, Resfest Brazil, Atlantic Film Festival, Olympia Film Festival
WATCH THE FILM
November 6, 2025
Nitehawk, Brooklyn, NY info
November 12, 2025
PhilaMoca, Philadelphia, PA info
January 14, 2026
Sound Unseen/Trylon Cinema, Minneapolis, MN info
More Screenings Soon!!! Including: Los Angeles, Seattle, Portland, San Diego and more
PRESS
“Kicks amazing amounts of ass.” -Chris Estey, KEXP
“A testament to the power of their music and the promise unfulfilled.” -Sam Adams, Los Angeles Times
“An emotional roller coaster ride.” -Sarah Bardeen, NPR
“A story as powerful as the music behind it.” -Honor Roll, SPIN
“A true and tragic rock 'n' roll saga.” -Phil Gallo, Variety
“A reminder of one of the most dangerous bands” -Chris Harris, Rolling Stone