Filmmaker Chris Smith's documentary "Devo" at Sundance Film Festival pays tribute to the iconic band with a mix of commentary, irony, and kitschy collages, capturing the group's evolution from bizarre art project to alt-rock icons. The film delves into the band's history, their unique philosophy, and their impact on music and visual art, culminating in a standing ovation and a Q&A session that perfectly embodies the spirit of Devo.
Devo, the visionary new wave band known for their satirical take on cultural de-evolution, reflects on their prescient lyrics and the impact of their music. Despite their lone hit "Whip It" in 1980, Devo's influence can be seen in the widespread use of their buzzy synthesizer tones, robotic moves, and retro graphics in commercials, cartoons, and possibly even K-pop. With a new 50-song boxed set and a continuing world tour, Devo is embracing and reaffirming their legacy. The band's founders, Gerald Casale and Mark Mothersbaugh, discuss their origins, their disillusionment with rock music, and their ability to foresee trends like music videos and artists marketing themselves as brands. While Devo's dystopian vision of American culture has become a reality, they remain hopeful for the future and continue to inspire with their music.
