In an era where the lines between music genres are increasingly blurred, Netflix’s newest music documentary, HER RIFF: The Rise of Girl Rock, makes a thunderous entrance. The film brings together two of rock and pop’s most powerful female voices — Amy Lee of Evanescence and international icon Pink — in a collaboration that bridges sound, story, and sisterhood. Through an intimate look into their creative process, the documentary not only charts the evolution of girl rock bands but also celebrates the resilience and reinvention of women in music.
Set primarily in a lush, state-of-the-art recording studio, the documentary captures the spark of raw creativity as Amy and Pink come together to compose an original anthem for a fictional all-female rock band. Their sessions are punctuated by powerful vocals, honest conversations, and reflections on what it means to be women in a male-dominated genre. With each recording session, viewers are pulled deeper into the emotional and professional dynamics that have shaped their careers.
Amy Lee, known for her haunting vocals and gothic-rock roots, opens up about the early challenges of being labeled “too emotional” or “too dark” in the mainstream industry. Her perspective offers a poignant counterbalance to Pink’s rebellious, pop-punk persona — someone who defied expectations with both vulnerability and grit. Together, their chemistry is electric, and their shared mission to amplify the female rock voice becomes the soul of the film.
HER RIFF does more than showcase two legends at work; it also threads in the voices of emerging female rock artists. Interwoven throughout the film are short interviews and performances by young bands inspired by Amy and Pink. These new voices echo the same struggles — navigating stereotypes, owning their sound, and breaking through industry noise — making the documentary both timely and timeless.
The visual tone of the documentary is modern and edgy without being overwhelming. Cinematic shots of drum kits, guitar frets, and studio boards are contrasted with softer, candid scenes of the artists laughing, arguing, or simply lost in the music. It’s a study in balance — much like the women themselves — and the production design underscores that duality without ever losing its rock-and-roll core.
Behind the scenes, director Kayla Monroe masterfully crafts a narrative that avoids clichés. There are no savior complexes, no romanticized breakdowns — just hardworking musicians doing what they love. The authenticity of the project is enhanced by a female-led production team that understands the nuances of the stories being told. It’s clear that this was a labor of love and purpose.
One standout moment in the film features a stripped-down acoustic session where Amy and Pink harmonize over a song called “Daughters of Distortion.” The lyrics — co-written on screen — are a tribute to women who’ve been told their noise is too much, their anger too sharp, and their dreams too big. It’s a rallying cry that sticks with viewers long after the credits roll.
Another emotional highlight comes when both artists recount the female influences that shaped their path — from Pat Benatar to Joan Jett to Alanis Morissette. Their stories serve as a reminder that girl rock isn’t a trend — it’s a legacy. And it’s one that’s being rewritten with each passing generation.
The documentary also touches on the business side of things — how women often have to fight twice as hard for creative control, fair contracts, and tour safety. These insights elevate HER RIFF beyond the music, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the mechanics of the modern music industry.
At its core, HER RIFF is a love letter to women who refused to be quiet. It celebrates not just fame or talent, but the unglamorous, unfiltered work behind the scenes — the late nights, vocal strain, and battles for self-worth that come with the territory. For aspiring female artists, this is both inspiration and instruction.
Critics are already hailing the documentary as one of Netflix’s most refreshing music features in years. Not just because of the star power, but because it finally gives center stage to voices long kept on the margins. And with Amy Lee and Pink leading the charge, the message is clear: this isn’t just a moment — it’s a movement.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of girl rock or new to the genre, HER RIFF: The Rise of Girl Rock delivers an unforgettable watch. It’s loud, it’s honest, and above all, it’s necessary. Turn the volume up — the girls have something to say.
Leave a Reply