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Peelander-Z is quite possibly the most colorful and outrageous punk band on the planet. However, they actually don’t claim to be from this planet, and refer to themselves as “Japanese Action Comic Punk band hailing from the Z area of Planet Peelander.” In 2016, Film Movement released the documentary Mad Tiger. It follows the band from 2012 through 2015 as they embark on their final tour with one of the founding members, and the tension that grows within the band. It’s an excellent diary that chronicles a rough patch in a band that has persevered for over two decades.
Mad Tiger tells the story of Peelander-Z, the punk rock band from New York. Formed by Kengo Hioki (aka Peelander Yellow) and Kotaro Tsukada (aka Peelander Red), who were long time friends. After thirteen years in the band, Kotaro, who had recently married his long-time girlfriend, is ready to hang up his bass and start a life with her. Kengo may seem like he’s fine with this on the outside, but inside he feels betrayed by someone he felt would always be by his side. This documentary follows their final shows together and Kengo’s journey after he leaves. He’s now faced with the decision on what to do with the band now. Should he carry on without him, or give up on his art for good?
Peelander-Z isn’t a typical band. At one point in the documentary, founder/guitarist/vocalist Kengo, or Yellow if you prefer, describes the band as being 10% about music and 90% about the theatrical aspect. There’s plenty of live footage, so you get an idea of what they’re trying to do. They claim to be from another planet sent here to make people happy. I’d say mission accomplished. Each member of the band is named after a color, and they become that color. Hair, instrument, clothes, etc. are all that color. Yellow, Red, Green, and Pink are the predominant colors but as members leave, they either introduce a new one, or an adopt an old one. The themes of friendship, betrayal, and chasing dreams drive the narrative. It also touches upon forgiveness and redemption, as well. I love Peelander-Z, and Mad Tiger is able to capture the manic energy and creative flair the bring to the stage. Film Movement has released a terrific two-disc DVD set that contains deleted scenes, music videos, audio commentaries, and best of all the full final show of Peelander Red himself, Kotaro.
The music documentary takes a deeper look into what can be considered underground music, and the struggles these people go through try to make it in the modern musical landscape. In a medium that has changed so drastically over the last two decades, it’s inspiring to see a group like them push forward, against all odds, to be true to their art and present it to their fans.
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