A long time ago, in 2010, I finally managed to see Depeche Mode live in Birmingham. I’ve always enjoyed their music, and my wife, who has seen them live about seven times, (including the most recent tour), loves them.
When this special event film was advertised, it was a no-brainer to go and see it. It’s a mix of interludes and concert footage, all set to the sounds of Depeche Mode on the big screen.
Special event films in cinemas are usually quite expensive. Thankfully, as new Cineworld Unlimited members, we can book events at half price, and this time it costed about £6.95 each.
Online, it states that this film captured three sold-out shows in Mexico City during their 2023 tour, which supported the Memento Mori album. Director Fernando Frías captures live footage, along with poetic interludes and themes about death as viewed by Mexican culture.
Thankfully, the film is more concert footage than interludes. The interludes that are subtitled only took up a small amount of screen time, but they certainly fit with the sounds of some of the music. The cinematography is strong and captures Dave and Martin’s live performances well. However, don’t expect any behind-the-scenes footage, off-stage footage, or interviews with the band.
Many tracks are from the more recent albums, with some classics from Music for the Masses and Violator. While I’m not as familiar with the new tracks, I thoroughly enjoyed the concert footage, especially as all tracks were played in full. The sound and visuals in the cinema made it feel like being up close at a concert. Dave was excellent vocally, but my wife, who’s the expert, thought he was generally good but had seen him perform better live.
A live album to support this film tour is out soon, and I’m looking forward to listening to it. As a live concert film, I haven’t rated this film, but if you like Depeche Mode, it’s a no-brainer. And if you live near an IMAX theatre, it goes without saying that it would be amazing.
Certification: 12A
Running time: 99 minutes
Screening type: 2D
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