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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

Saturday 26 Oct 2024

07:00 pm

Devo

Odeon Star Semaphore:

Odeon Star Semaphore Cinema 1

Saturday 2 Nov 2024

09:00 pm

Devo

Palace Nova Eastend:

Palace Nova Eastend Cinema 4

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