Make-Up Screening: Devo Documentary at Ann Arbor Film Festival – April 26
- vicki4185
- Apr 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 15
April 13, 2025
We’re excited to announce a special make-up screening of the electrifying new Devo documentary, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Chris Smith (Wham!, Fyre, Jim & Andy), on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 4:00 PM in the Michigan Theater Main Auditorium.
This screening is being held to make up for the technical issues that affected the original showing during this year’s Ann Arbor Film Festival. We sincerely apologize for the disruption — and we’re thrilled to give audiences another chance to experience this incredible film the way it was meant to be seen: on the big screen, with great sound, in one of the country's most iconic theaters.
All original ticket holders for this program and AAFF pass holders are welcome to attend for free. For new attendees, tickets are just $14 and can be purchased through the AAFF online shop.
Devo, Full Circle
This isn’t just a film - It’s a full-circle moment. Devo has deep roots in AAFF history. Back in 1977, they screened their short film In the Beginning Was the End: The Truth About De-Evolution at the 15th Ann Arbor Film Festival, where it won Best of Festival and went on the AAFF Tour. That exposure helped launch their career — leading to their first record deal and the beginning of a 50-year cultural legacy that fused punk, performance art, and media critique like no one else.
Just two weeks after Devo presented their restored short films at the festival, their legacy returns to AAFF — this time through their electrifying documentary, showcasing their groundbreaking journey on the big screen.
A Film More Relevant Than Ever
Devo’s core message — that culture is regressing, not evolving — feels startlingly timely today. Born in the wake of political upheaval and violence at Kent State, Devo responded with biting satire, sharp aesthetics, and a philosophy of “De-Evolution” that now reads more like prophecy than parody.
In today’s uncertain political climate, their message hits harder than ever. This film invites us to reconsider their legacy not as a quirky band from the MTV era, but as visionaries who saw the cycle of history turning in real time — and soundtracked it with brilliance, rage, and absurdity.
With never-before-seen footage and intimate interviews with Mark Mothersbaugh, Bob Mothersbaugh, and Jerry Casale, this is your chance to see their story unfold — surreal, hilarious, urgent, and always ahead of its time.
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Michigan Theater, Main Auditorium
Tickets: $14 via AAFF website
Free for original program ticket holders and 63rd AAFF pass holders
We're so glad we can bring this important film to the big screen. Thank you for your patience — and see you at the theater!
