The Runaways And The Short Film Project They Abandoned After One Shoot

April 2, 2025

In the summer of 1976, The Runaways were riding high on the waves of their rising fame. With their catchy hits like “Cherry Bomb” and their electrifying performances, the all-girl rock band was breaking barriers in a male-dominated music industry. But beneath the shimmer of stage lights and roaring crowds, a storm was brewing. The band decided to take a leap into the world of filmmaking, envisioning a short film that would showcase their music and bold personalities. They gathered at a studio in Los Angeles, buzzing with excitement and ideas, ready to capture the spirit of youth and rebellion on camera.

The first day of shooting was a whirlwind of creativity. The vibrant set was alive with music, laughter, and flashes from the camera. Joan Jett, Lita Ford, and the rest of the band poured their hearts into every scene, creating a vision that soared with the same energy as their songs. But as the hours ticked by and the cameras rolled, things began to unravel. Tensions rose over creative differences, and the pressures of filming began to weigh heavily on the young artists. What was meant to be a fun project turned into a source of stress, as the band members found themselves clashing over how they wanted to portray their story.

After just one exhausting day of shooting, The Runaways made the difficult decision to abandon the project. It felt like a crushing defeat, especially for Joan Jett, who had poured so much of herself into the vision. She was devastated, feeling like their dreams had slipped through their fingers. Yet, despite the disappointment, something inside her refused to let the setback define their journey. She reminded herself—and the band—that sometimes, failure is just a stepping stone towards greater success. Instead of dwelling on what could have been, they chose to focus on what they loved most: their music.

With renewed determination, The Runaways returned to what they did best. They hit the stage again, channeling their energy into their songs, pouring their experiences, including the abandoned film project, into their music. This resilience became a hallmark of their journey. Each challenge they faced only fueled their passion and creativity. Over time, they became a symbol of empowerment for young girls everywhere, proving that with hard work and dedication, anything could be achieved.

The band went on to leave an indelible mark on rock music, inspiring countless artists and fans around the world. Though the short film was never completed, the lessons learned during that time shaped their identities not just as musicians but as pioneers. Joan and her bandmates carried those experiences into their future projects, knowing that every setback can lead to a comeback. They demonstrated to everyone that true artistry is about embracing the journey, celebrating the highs, and learning from the lows. The Runaways became more than just a band; they became a legacy of resilience, passion, and the unbreakable spirit of youth.