South Wales punk band The NaNaz are redefining ageing. Juggling busy lives and caring duties, these six women gear up for the adventure of a lifetime: a gig in New York City.
In a society that often expects women to quieten down as they grow older, six women from Newport have decided to turn the volume all the way up. Age against the Machine follows the extraordinary journey of The NaNaz, an all-female punk band tearing up the rulebook on growing older.
They met at community workshops in south Wales set up to get women over 50 into music. For some, it was a return to a lifelong passion; for others, it was the first time they had played an instrument. When the course ended, the chemistry was undeniable, and The NaNaz were born. Within a month, they played their first gig in Newport. Over the past year, they have built a loyal fanbase across south Wales, released an EP – NaNafesto – and attracted widespread press coverage. Drawing directly from their own life experiences, they channel everyday realities into honest punk anthems about the menopause, care homes and even recycling.
But now, they face their biggest opportunity: an invitation to play their first international gig at an all-female punk festival in New York.
The documentary follows the reality of trying to make this American dream happen. Doing it entirely on their own terms brings massive challenges: they have no manager and they all juggle incredibly busy lives filled with work and caring responsibilities. As the countdown to New York ticks away, the film follows their intense rehearsals, the logistical hurdles and the personal sacrifices required to make the NYC dream a reality.
The NaNaz are six women who refuse to let anyone tell them how to live their third age. This is a life-affirming exploration of friendship, courage, and reinvention.
