Must-See Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Movies and Documentaries

Dive into the world of EDM with our top picks of must-see movies and documentaries. Discover the history, beats, and drama of electronic music.

Must-See Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Movies and Documentaries
Avatar of Dragoman
  • PublishedJuly 12, 2024
  • Reading Time: 5 Minutes

Last Updated: July 12, 2024 (07.04.2024)

Be all the ears in the electrifying world of electronic dance music (EDM) with these must-see best electronic dance music (EDM) movies and documentaries. These cinematic experiences blend beats, drama, and insights into the vibrant and dynamic electronic music scene. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or new to the genre, these selections will take you on a journey through the history, culture, and evolution of electronic dance music (EDM).


Best Movies About Electronic Dance Music (EDM)

What are the top movies you can watch about electronic dance music (EDM)? Let’s find out below!

  • Human Traffic (1999)
  • Kevin & Perry Go Large (2000)
  • Groove (2000)
  • 24 Hour Party People (2002)
  • It’s All Gone Pete Tong (2004)
  • One Perfect Day (2004)
  • Part of the Weekend Never Dies (2008)
  • Weekender (2011)
  • Eden (2014)
  • We Are Your Friends (2015)

Now, let’s check them out one-by-one and vie their trailers and short summaries.

No order and rating intended.

Human Traffic (1999)

Directed by Justin Kerrigan, “Human Traffic” humorously and intimately captures a weekend in the lives of five friends immersed in the electronic and dance music culture of the late ’90s. The soundtrack mirrors the era’s rhythm, and the film’s engaging narrative makes it a cult classic among EDM enthusiasts.

Kevin & Perry Go Large (2000)

This comedy follows two awkward teens, Kevin and Perry, as they navigate the party scene in Ibiza, hoping to become DJs. The movie captures the essence of youth and dance culture, growing in popularity due to its portrayal of the exhilaration and pitfalls of teenage dreams.

Groove (2000)

Set against the backdrop of San Francisco’s underground rave scenes of the late ’90s, “Groove” captures one exhilarating night at an underground dance party. The film is a snapshot of the era’s EDM culture, with a special appearance by DJ John Digweed. Dive into this cinematic experience to relive the pulsating beats of yesteryear.

24 Hour Party People (2002)

This film chronicles the evolution of Manchester’s dance music from the punk rock of the late ’70s through the rave scene of the ’80s. “24 Hour Party People” offers a humorous and insightful look at the “Madchester” movement, earning acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival.

It’s All Gone Pete Tong (2004)

This poignant film, directed by Michael Dowse, traces the life of a famous DJ who loses his hearing. The movie, filled with both comedic and tragic elements, portrays his fall and subsequent resurgence as he embraces new beginnings. Watch the engaging trailer and feel the unpredictability of his journey.

One Perfect Day (2004)

After a series of personal setbacks, talented musician Tommy Matisse returns to his home in Melbourne and discovers electronic music. The film’s dramatic narrative blends with intriguing details about Australia’s music scene, offering a compelling look at his transformational journey.

Part of the Weekend Never Dies (2008)

Documenting the global tour of the indie group Soulwax, this film offers a glimpse into the chaotic and humorous life on the road. Directed by Saam Farahmand, it features performances by notable artists like James Murphy and Erol Alkan, making it a treat for fans of indie and electronic music fusion.

Weekender (2011)

Journey back to the ’90s with “Weekender“, which follows two friends from Manchester as they dive into the iconic dance music scenes of Ibiza, London, and Amsterdam. The film explores their soaring passions and the eventual strain on their friendship, all set to a nostalgic soundtrack.

Eden (2014)

Eden” tracks the highs and lows of Paul, a DJ, alongside the rise of Daft Punk in the ’90s. The film is a love letter to electronic music and club culture, detailing the challenges and passions of pursuing a dream amidst the vibrant nightlife.

We Are Your Friends (2015)

Centered on 23-year-old DJ Cole Carter, “We Are Your Friends” depicts his struggle to secure a foothold in the electronic music industry. The film captures the essence of the EDM boom and is a modern take on the aspirations and challenges of young artists.


Best Documentaries About Electronic Dance Music (EDM)

For those interested in a deeper, more analytical look at electronic music, documentaries provide an unparalleled glimpse into the genre’s processes, cultural impact, and evolution. These films highlight the history and key players in the EDM scene and offer a unique perspective on how this music continues to shape and influence modern culture.

What are the top documentaries you can watch about electronic dance music (EDM)? Let’s find out below!

  • We Call It Techno! (2008)
  • Better Living Through Circuitry (1999)
  • High Tech Soul: The Creation of Techno Music (2006)
  • Modulations: Cinema For The Ear (1998)
  • The Summer of Rave, 1989 (2006)
  • Richie Hawtin – Pioneers of Electronic Music (2011)
  • What We Started (2017)
  • SubBerlin – The Story of Tresor (2008)
  • Pump Up The Volume (1990)
  • Feiern – Don’t Forget To Go Home (2006)

Now, let’s check them out one-by-one and vie their trailers or full versions and short summaries.

No order and rating intended.

We Call It Techno! (2008)

This documentary details the techno scene in Germany from its inception to its development until the mid-nineties. Released by Maren Sextro and Holger Wick, it is a triumphant work that offers a deep dive into the history of techno music in Germany.

Better Living Through Circuitry (1999)

Jon Reiss‘s documentary is described as the first feature-length documentary about the history of electronic and dance music. It includes interviews with various musicians like Moby, Carl Cox, and BT, along with the rave extension of the electronic dance music scene in America.

High Tech Soul: The Creation of Techno Music (2006)

Directed by Gary Bredow, this documentary examines the cultural history of Detroit and the deepest roots of techno music. Featuring interviews with the Belleville Three (Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson), it is considered one of the most significant works among music documentaries.

Modulations: Cinema For The Ear (1998)

This production investigates the roots of electronic music and its stages and evolutions. It provides a more academic approach, analyzing the genres’ formed and changing forms and what is effective in catching modern steps.

The Summer of Rave, 1989 (2006)

This documentary takes viewers on a journey to the era when EDM culture just emerged. It explores the period’s globalization, the end of communism, Margaret Thatcher‘s hegemony, and football fanaticism, all of which culminated in the rise of EDM culture.

Richie Hawtin – Pioneers of Electronic Music (2011)

This biographical documentary of Richie Hawtin, part of the “Pioneers of Electronic Music” series by Slices magazine, showcases his career from his early days on the Detroit border to his life in Berlin. It offers insights into his influence on modern electronic dance music.

What We Started (2017)

This documentary examines the popularization of electronic dance music and the formation of today’s EDM culture. It features prominent figures like Carl Cox, Martin Garrix, Tiesto, David Guetta, and Steve Angello, providing a comprehensive look at the genre’s evolution.

SubBerlin – The Story of Tresor (2008)

Tilmann Künzel‘s documentary tells the story of Tresor, one of the most important clubs in the history of electronic music. It details the club’s impact on Berlin’s music scene from 1991 until its original location closed in 2005.

Pump Up The Volume (1990)

This BBC documentary examines house music in full detail. It offers an in-depth look at dance music culture and the atmosphere of the age in the most important capitals of house music, featuring archival footage and various interviews.

Feiern – Don’t Forget To Go Home (2006)

This documentary deals with Berlin‘s electronic dance music scene from a unique perspective. It follows individuals spending time in clubs like Berghain, Bar 25, and Watergate, depicting techno as more than just a musical genre but a lifestyle that transforms identities and relationships.


Conclusion: Best EDM Movies & Documentaries

Watching these films and documentaries can take you into the magical world of electronic music. These selections provide a rich tapestry of history, culture, and personal stories, offering a deeper understanding of the genre. Whether you are a seasoned raver or a newcomer, these films and documentaries will enrich your appreciation for the electronic dance music scene.

If there are any other movies or documentaries you think should be included in this list, let us know in the comments below!


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Written By
Dragoman

Welcome to Techno Airlines! I'm Dragoman, your captain of beats and curator of all things fancy, original and creative in the world of techno music. Join me as we explore mind-bending DJs, electrifying festivals, and groundbreaking sounds that will take you on a sonic adventure like no other. Fasten your seatbelts and get ready to dance, dream, and discover the extraordinary.

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