Review of Tramps! - A tale of New Romanticism featuring outcasts, the Blitz kids, and a catastrophic storm of destruction.

This documentary offers a gossipy, nostalgic, and charming look into the New Romantic movement, known for its flamboyant fashion and dramatic makeup. The film features interviews with key figures from the scene, which emerged from the punk movement in London in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The iconic Blitz club in Covent Garden, where Boy George worked as a coat-check attendant (allegedly so he could steal from patrons’ pockets), served as the birthplace of this scene. While the door policy was strict – even Mick Jagger was turned away – it welcomed free-spirited individuals.

During the Thatcher era of economic downturn, many of the “Blitz kids” resided in a squat in Warren Street, occupying several Georgian houses. Despite the squalid conditions, it was a hub of creativity with residents on unemployment benefits. They immersed themselves in various forms of art, including film, music, fashion, and visual arts. Dressing up and creating eccentric looks was a regular pastime, with some individuals even painting their nipples and wearing minimal clothing while traveling on the tube. One drag queen even carried concrete in her handbag for protection against potential homophobic attacks. However, the scene was not without its own drama and rivalries, with disputes over stolen looks often leading to fights on the dancefloor.

Looking back, there is something charming and lovable about the mindset of the New Romantics. They craved fame, but had no concern for financial gain. In today’s world, they would likely be social media influencers earning large sums from sponsorships. Many of them went on to become successful leaders in their respective industries, such as Boy George, choreographer Michael Clark, and filmmaker John Maybury. Maybury reminds director Kevin Hegge not to overlook the queer influence, as it is often excluded from documentaries due to the devastating effects of the Aids epidemic, which claimed the lives of many young gay men. This serves as a heartbreaking ending.