Watch Underplayed

Underplayed is a 2020 documentary film directed by Stacey Lee, which delves into the world of electronic dance music (EDM). The film focuses on the gender gap in the industry, examining the experiences of female DJs and producers who have struggled to achieve the same level of recognition and opportunities as their male counterparts.

The film begins by highlighting the history of EDM and the emergence of female artists like Sister Bliss and DJ Rap in the 1990s. Despite their success, women in the industry face numerous challenges due to the male-dominated culture that often disregards their talent and expertise. Underplayed explores this issue by following the stories of several accomplished and rising female artists.

One of the main artists featured is Anna Lunoe, an Australian singer, producer, and DJ. The film showcases her journey through the industry, featuring clips from her live performances, interviews with her peers, and footage of her recording sessions. Lunoe discusses the challenges she has faced as a woman in the industry and how she has had to work harder to prove herself.

Another artist featured in the film is the Nervo sisters, Mim and Liv, who are Australian musicians, DJs, and songwriters. They discuss the challenges they have faced, including being told they were "too pretty" to be taken seriously as DJs. They also reveal how they have dealt with sexism and harassment while touring, including having to deal with unwanted advances from male fans.

The film also features Nightwave, a Scottish DJ and producer, who discusses her experiences as a woman in the industry. She talks about the importance of representation and how she hopes to inspire young girls to pursue careers in music.

Underplayed also features commentary from prominent figures in the industry, such as Alison Wonderland, REZZ, and Tygapaw. They discuss the gender gap in EDM and the need for more diversity and inclusion in the industry. The film also highlights initiatives and organizations that are working to promote and support female artists in the industry, such as She Said So and Girls Rock Camp.

In addition to addressing gender inequality in the industry, Underplayed also explores broader themes related to music and culture. The film examines the impact of technology and social media on the industry, including the role they play in the marketing and distribution of music. It also touches on issues such as mental health, creativity, and artistic freedom.

Overall, Underplayed is a thought-provoking and insightful documentary that sheds light on an important issue in the music industry. The film provides a platform for female artists to share their experiences and perspectives while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality in EDM. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in music, culture, and social justice.

Underplayed is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.