When punk rock exploded in Washington D.C. in the mid-1970s, it was a mighty convergence of powerful music, friendships, and clear minds. Punk the Capital takes us through the transformative period (1976-1983), situating D.C. punk within the larger narratives of punk and rock n' roll. It takes us to the heart of why both the sounds and ideas from this unique music scene continue to influence and inspire around the world. Focusing on bands such as Bad Brains and Minor Threat and featuring persons such as Henry Rollins, Ian MacKaye and Cynthia Connolly, the film creates a portrait of a movement that not only redefined a genre but that created a model for social and political engagement.