Loading...

2024

Devo

Devo explores the ground-breaking journey of the band behind Whip It, tracing their rise from an experimental group to music pioneers. Directed by Chris Smith, this documentary unveils rare footage and new interviews, showcasing Devo's profound influence on music, art, and pop culture.

Director

Chris Smith

Runtime

94 Minutes

Country

United States, United Kingdom

Classification

Unclassified 15+

Uncover the true story of Devo, the band that revolutionised the music video.

Devo is more than just a nostalgic trip back to the 80s—it's a revelation of one of the most ground-breaking and misunderstood bands of our time. Directed by Chris Smith, this explosive documentary delves into the true story of Devo, the band famous for their hit song Whip It and their provocative message of de-evolution.

Born in response to the 1970 Kent State University shootings, Devo’s work was also heavily influenced by avant-garde art movements like Dadaism and Surrealism. The film traces their journey from a small, experimental band to music pioneers who were creating music videos before MTV even existed. Their early work, including an award-winning video at the Ann Arbor Film Festival, led to performances at legendary New York venues like CBGB and a growing fanbase that included the likes of Jack Nicholson and John Waters.

Chris Smith masterfully weaves together rare archival footage—such as Devo's first concert and other never-before-seen performances—with insightful new interviews from the original band members. The documentary also explores their collaborations with music legends like Neil Young, Brian Eno, and David Bowie, highlighting Devo’s profound impact on the music industry.

Devo is a captivating and essential watch, offering an in-depth look at a band that challenged the norms and left an indelible mark on music history.

“By the time it settles into a music-doc groove ... you’re already in a Devo state of mind: perverse, critical, pop culturally cracked and politically conscious.”

Rolling Stone

“Chris Smith’s Devo is a documentary that’s every bit as fun as its subject.”

Variety

“All this is packaged in a dizzying barrage of imaginative visuals and infectious music that’s almost overwhelming — in the best possible way.”

The Hollywood Reporter

Sundance, Sheffield, Melbourne

Film Credits

Director

Chris Smith

Year

2024

Country

United States & United Kingdom

Language

English

Type

Documentary & Feature

Program Strand

Music on Film & World Documentary

Producer

Danny GabaiAnita GreenspanChris Holmes & Chris Smith

Cinematographer

Chris Smith

Editor

Joey Scoma

Film Source

Library Films

Genre

Documentary & Music

Purchase Tickets

More to see...

Dig! XX

Dig! XX

More music, more commentary and even more fights in this epic tale of rock ’n’ roll, reworked for the 20th anniversary. Ondi Timoner’s ground-breaking documentation of dueling rock bands The Dandy Warhols and The Brian Jonestown Massacre is introduced to new audiences in this extended edition of the cult classic, Dig! XX.
Teaches of Peaches

Teaches of Peaches

Winner of the 2024 Berlinale Teddy Award, this documentary showcases Peaches' talent, activism and influence. Following the 20th Anniversary tour of her album The Teaches of Peaches, the film features stunning live performances and delves into her beginnings. With interviews from Feist, Chilly Gonzales and Shirley Manson, it celebrates Peaches' revolutionary impact.

I'm Not Everything I Want to Be

I'm Not Everything I Want to Be

A young female photographer escapes the oppressive forces of Soviet-era Czechoslovakia, using her camera as a means of self-expression and liberation. Told through thousands of mostly black and white still photographs and excerpts from her diary, I’m Not Everything I Want to Be captures the spirit of the times.
Piece by Piece

Piece by Piece

The life of influential music producer and singer Pharrell Williams told through LEGO® animation. Piece by Piece invites you turn up the volume on your imagination and witness the evolution of one of music’s most innovative minds. Directed by Oscar-winning documentarian Morgan Neville.