Punk Rock Prison

By Alyssa Cadue

[1] After his friends interrogate a strung-out Vinny about Richie’s current behavior, Vinny, Joey T, and another man take a trip down to C.B.G.B.’s. The important thing to consider is how director Spike Lee displays the hypocritical behavior and mentality of the neighborhood men as they search for the Son of Sam. They leave their comfort zone because obviously a killer wasn’t bred in their streets -- he was nurtured by the darkness found in New York City’s rebel community. As the scene progresses, we find out who is a malicious person, a betraying friend, and who is just trying to survive peacefully.

Sunglasses at night

[2] Unlike many of the scenes involving glamorous night clubs, this particular scene is set in the grungy, beaten-down section of New York City’s underground punk rock world. There are no flashing signs and light-hearted beats from a disco song. People aren’t dressed in bright and revealing dance clothing, while mixing whiskey sours with tiny straws. No, this is dirty rock full of rage and emotion. The guests are clad in combat boots, ratty hair, and studded leather jackets. Ritchie and Ruby have fully blossomed into the ideal punk couple, equipped with a Mohawk and heavy eye liner. This scene reinforces the stereotype against these so-called “outsiders” and is a perfect location for director Spike Lee to show the contrast between the real threats of society (Joey T and co.) versus the alleged ones (Ritchie and other punk rockers). Clearly, a serial killer would lurk in these satanic crowds, chanting along in séances and drinking the blood from animal sacrifices. In reality, most of these people have no interest in violence, particularly Ritchie, who tries to talk one-on-one with Vinny in the street. If this conversation took place outside of Studio 54, then Spike Lee’s message would probably not have the same effect. He reminds us that the pretty, normal people aren’t always innocent, and Ritchie says it himself, “Since when does your hairstyle determine whether or not you’re a f-ing killer?”

Psycho Killer, Qu'est-ce que c'est?

[3] Aside from the environmental importance of this scene, the overwhelming paranoia that has tapped into the minds of Vinny’s friends has led to a self-appointed investigation of local residents. This group of drugged up, ignorant, low lives seem to think that they are fine examples of society and have the right to judge who is and is not a serial killer. The two men, while surrounded by punk rockers seem uneasy and are disgusted by the stench of the club. Ironically, they behave like the most vicious predators of all -- stalking Ritchie in his local hang outs and questioning Vinny to the point where he suffers from a mental breakdown. In reality, these neighborhood bullies are more frightened of Sam than most people and are looking for a way to silence their fears. This scene also reveals how judging people and pushing them out of society, just because they’re different, is incredibly destructive. David Berkowitz is a perfect example of how an outsider can lash out onto the society that refuses to accept him. He is never featured in this scene, but Ritchie’s character represents Berkowitz’s struggle to survive in a world that doesn’t understand him. Also, the violent thoughts of these men, which were once contained in the local pizza parlors and by the street blockade, are seeping out into other parts of society, which is representative of the anger and rage that spread throughout New York during that horrific summer.

Burnin’ down the house

[4] When Ritchie spots Vinny sitting in his car, he doesn’t express the desire to hurt Vinny or yell at him for missing the show, he simply wants to scare him. Vinny, on the other hand, has allowed his friends to brainwash him into belief that Ritchie is part of a cult, is The Son of Sam, and is also a homosexual. Sadly, the only cult in this movie is that of Vinny’s friends, who are making lists and harassing everyone from a taxi driver to a minister. The close bond that once existed between these childhood friends has been severed through a series of lies and manipulations. Vinny has actually led his other friends into this punk neighborhood, knowing that the outcome of their encounter will probably end in violence.

[5] Vinny’s harsh accusations pile up and hurt Ritchie to the point of his disbelief. He asks his own friend how he suddenly could lose faith in him, and if he really thinks all of these lies are true. Vinny responds with, “it doesn’t matter what I think,” and now it is very obvious that his insecurities and two-timing behavior are getting in the way of his relationships. Maybe it’s the drugs that are unwinding Vinny by the seams, but he damages an important bond and it will never be repaired. This point in the scene links to the entire movie because it reveals Vinny’s lack of appreciation for other people, particularly his wife Dionna. Also, Spike Lee reminds us of the importance of connection between people, and how excluding yourself from society only leads to more pain. David Berkowitz followed a very similar pattern of behavior as a child, when he bullied other people and shut off from the world.

Birds of a feather

[6] In great contrast to the deterioration of Vinny, Ritchie shows progress in his new life with Ruby. They enter the scene with dramatic punk upgrades, but the pair seem under control and happy with one another. Their lives are unconventional, and yet they connect because of their dislike of “normal” society. Despite his appearances, Ritchie stays true to himself and those around him, even Vinny, who has turned against him the final hours. Ritchie is a breath of fresh air in the movie and especially in this scene, because he maintains his composure and reminds Vinny that he isn’t the one who is a vigilante killer. He may look like an unfriendly character, but Ritchie is not trying to impress anyone or prove a point. Vinny on the other hand, represents all that is materialistic in the world. He is a hairdresser who helps people change how they look and feel every day. Of all the characters, Vinny should understand that appearances can be deceiving. Unfortunately, he looks at Ritchie and judges him because he doesn’t fit in with society.

Strangers in the night

[7] In only a few minutes, Vinny and Ritchie become enemies. Many of the previous conversations between the two friends showed a deeper side to both characters, and their friendship offered a glimpse of understanding between two very different parties. This scene in front of C.B.G.B.’s is a critical turning point in the film, and the happy-go-lucky days of the summer are gone forever. Friendships and romances dissolve, tension rises within communities all over New York City, and still a killer claims the live of more innocent youth.