Watch What We Started

What We Started is a fascinating and engaging documentary from 2017 that tells the story of electronic dance music (EDM) and its evolution from underground movement to global phenomenon. The film follows two DJs, one established (Carl Cox) and one up-and-coming (Martin Garrix), as they navigate the rapidly changing EDM landscape, and also features interviews with other influential artists like Steve Angello, Chip Eberhart, and Tiësto.

One of the most interesting aspects of What We Started is its exploration of the origins of EDM. The film delves into the early days of house and techno music, tracing their roots to Chicago and Detroit in the 1980s, and examining the influence of DJs like Frankie Knuckles and Derrick May. From there, the movie charts the rise of EDM in the UK, with its focus on massive raves and DJs like Carl Cox, before moving on to the explosion of the genre in the United States in the 2010s.

The movie is not merely a history of EDM, however; it is also very much a story of the present moment. What We Started is interested in how EDM is changing and evolving right now, in real time. This is seen most clearly through the story of Martin Garrix, who is depicted as a young and ambitious DJ struggling to find his niche in a market that seems to change with lightning speed. Garrix's story is juxtaposed with that of Cox, who represents the old guard of EDM, and who provides a fascinating contrast to Garrix's youth and energy.

The film is also notable for its stunning visuals. Director Bert Marcus is clearly fascinated by the look and feel of EDM culture, and the movie is filled with gorgeous shots of ravers, DJs, and festivals. These visuals are often accompanied by pounding beats and grooves, making for an immersive experience that will be deeply enjoyable for fans of EDM.

One of the strongest aspects of What We Started is its focus on the people behind the music. The movie is careful to give voice to a range of DJs and other industry figures, including many who are not necessarily household names. This approach helps to humanize the EDM scene, and to show that there are real people with real stories behind the bright lights and pounding beats. This humanizing effect is felt most powerfully in the movie's sensitive portrayal of Carl Cox, who emerges as a truly inspirational figure. Cox's humble beginnings and his extraordinary work ethic make for a compelling story, and his love for EDM shines through in every scene he appears in.

Overall, What We Started is an excellent documentary that will appeal to anyone interested in the history and culture of EDM. The movie is thoughtful, informative, and beautifully shot, and it succeeds in conveying the real passion and energy that makes EDM such a vital and enduring cultural force. Whether you're a hardcore fan of electronic music or simply someone curious about this vibrant and dynamic scene, What We Started is well worth watching.

What We Started is a 2018 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 51.