Cloudabouts
Techno music’s pulsating rhythms and futuristic sounds have always been more than just entertainment; they represent a culture, a movement, and a constant exploration of sound and technology. If you’re looking to delve deeper into the history, evolution, and impact of this genre, documentaries offer a captivating journey. Here are 10 must-see techno documentaries available now that will enlighten and inspire. I mean, who doesn’t love a good documentary, right? Especially when it involves music that makes you wanna move!
Exploring Techno’s Roots and Evolution
1. Paris Is Burning (1990) – A Foundational Glimpse
Okay, so Paris Is Burning isn’t exactly a techno documentary. But hear me out! It’s absolutely crucial for understanding the underground culture that birthed so much of it. You get a deep dive into the ballroom scene of 1980s New York City. Honestly, it’s all about the LGBTQ+ and POC communities, which heavily influenced early house and techno. It’s more like… foundational context. You’ll get it when you see it.
2. High Tech Soul: The Creation of Techno Music (2006)
This one? This is the real deal. A seminal work! Seriously. It chronicles the very beginning of techno in Detroit. It’s got interviews with legends like Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson – you know, the Belleville Three. If you wanna know where techno really came from, start here. No question.
3. Pump Up the Volume: A History of House Music (2001)
Alright, alright, another one that’s not strictly techno. But again, super important! It focuses on house music, but it gives you essential background for techno’s emergence. You’ll see how these two genres kinda grew up together, side by side, influencing each other. Think of it like…cousins?
Contemporary Techno Scenes and Artists
4. Speaking in Code (2009)
Ever wondered what it’s really like to be a touring techno artist? This documentary follows a few, including Modeselektor and Wighnomy Brothers, as they tour the world. It shows the ups and downs, the challenges, the rewards… the whole shebang. I always find these “behind the scenes” looks fascinating. Don’t you?
5. Berlin Calling (2008)
Okay, this one is technically fictional. BUT! It feels so real. Paul Kalkbrenner stars in it, and it’s all about the Berlin techno scene in the late 2000s. It gives you a super realistic glimpse into the life of a techno DJ. It’s almost like a documentary in disguise. Plus, the soundtrack is killer.
6. What We Started (2017)
This one tries to bridge the gap between the old guard and the new kids on the block. You get to see electronic music legends and rising stars interacting. It explores how the genre has changed, and the different experiences of someone like Carl Cox versus someone like Martin Garrix. It’s not just about techno, but it gives you perspective on the bigger electronic music world. Is it worth a watch? Absolutely.
Techno’s Impact and Cultural Significance
7. Raving Iran (2016)
Get ready for something powerful. This documentary follows two Iranian DJs, Anoosh and Arash, who are organizing underground techno parties in Tehran. Think about the risks they’re taking! Facing arrest, censorship… all for their passion. It’s a real eye-opener and shows how music can be a form of resistance. Seriously impactful stuff.
8. Electronic Vibrations (2018)
This one’s all about the bigger picture. It explores how electronic music, including our beloved techno, has affected culture in general. Everything from art and fashion to technology and social movements. It really makes you think about how music isn’t just something you listen to – it’s part of the world around you.
Diving Deeper into Specific Aspects of Techno
9. The Sound of Belgium (2012)
While it’s about Belgian electronic music in general, this documentary touches on Belgium’s crucial role in the early days of techno. It might surprise you how important Belgium was in popularizing the sound. A good one to check out if you want to impress your friends with your techno knowledge. Just kidding… mostly.
10. I Believe in Miracles (2018)
This one is about acid house and the UK rave scene. Now, hold on! Even though it’s not directly about techno, it hugely influenced techno. It provides historical context for how electronic music genres developed and crossed over. By seeing the cultural impact, you get a better feel for the music that drove everything forward. Honestly, it’s essential viewing.
So, there you have it! Ten documentaries to get you started on your techno deep dive. From the foundational roots in Detroit and New York to the cultural impact around the globe, these films offer a fascinating look into the world of techno. Go ahead, grab some popcorn, turn up the volume, and get ready to learn something new…or at least have something to talk about at your next techno party! I know what I’ll be watching tonight!
