Get ready to dive into the revolutionary world of Devo, the new wave band that challenged norms and left an indelible mark on music history. This highly anticipated documentary explores the band’s rise to fame in 1980 with their iconic hit “Whip It” and their provocative philosophy of “de-evolution”—a satirical critique of society’s decline, born from their reaction to the tragic 1970 Kent State shootings. Through rare footage, electrifying performances, and candid interviews, the film traces Devo’s journey from underground art-rock provocateurs to mainstream icons who redefined music, fashion, and cultural rebellion.

More than just a music documentary, Devo delves into the band’s avant-garde ethos, blending punk energy with surrealist humor and social commentary. Viewers will witness how their signature red “energy dome” hats, robotic stage personas, and dystopian anthems made them one of the most influential—and misunderstood—acts of their time. As the film unpacks their legacy, it also examines their lasting impact on genres from alternative rock to electronic music, proving that Devo’s vision of “de-evolution” remains eerily relevant today.

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Meet the Cast of Devo

– Mark Mothersbaugh — Self

As Devo’s co-founder, lead singer, and eccentric creative force, Mark Mothersbaugh was the band’s mad scientist—mixing synth-pop melodies with subversive wit. Known for his wild stage presence and iconic vocals, Mothersbaugh became the face of Devo’s anti-establishment persona. Beyond music, he later gained fame as a prolific composer for films (The Royal Tenenbaums, The LEGO Movie) and TV (Rugrats), proving his artistry extended far beyond the band.

In the documentary, Mothersbaugh reflects on Devo’s origins, their confrontational art-school roots, and the paradox of their mainstream success. His interviews reveal the tension between satire and sincerity in their work, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of a true innovator. Whether discussing their early performances or the cultural climate that shaped them, Mothersbaugh’s insights anchor the film with humor and depth.

– Bob Casale — Self (Archive Footage)

The late Bob Casale (aka “Bob 2”), Devo’s guitarist and keyboardist, played a crucial role in shaping their mechanical, futuristic sound. Though he passed away in 2014, the documentary honors his contributions through archival interviews and performances, showcasing his quiet yet vital presence in the band’s chemistry.

Casale’s technical prowess and understated demeanor balanced Devo’s chaos, helping craft their signature blend of punk and synth. The film highlights his behind-the-scenes influence, from studio experimentation to their iconic live shows. His absence is felt, but his legacy lives on in Devo’s enduring music.

– Gerald Casale — Self

Gerald Casale, Devo’s bassist and co-founder, was the band’s ideological architect, channeling post-Kent State rage into their “de-evolution” manifesto. His deadpan delivery and dystopian lyrics (like “Freedom of choice is what you got / Freedom from choice is what you want”) became their trademark. Casale’s sharp critiques of consumerism and conformity remain startlingly prescient.

In the documentary, Casale unpacks Devo’s origins as an art project-turned-movement, detailing their clashes with record labels and critics who dismissed them as a “novelty act.” His candid recollections—especially about their infamous “SNL” performance and battles with censorship—add a layer of grit to their surreal façade.

– Robert Mothersbaugh — Self

Lead guitarist Robert Mothersbaugh (aka “Bob 1”) brought Devo’s jagged, robotic riffs to life, merging punk aggression with new wave precision. His playing—whether on “Uncontrollable Urge” or “Girl U Want”—defined their sound as much as the synths did. Offstage, his quirky humor and DIY ethos embodied the band’s spirit.

The film captures Mothersbaugh’s perspective on Devo’s early days, including their homemade films and confrontational gigs. His anecdotes about their chaotic creativity (like crafting costumes from thrift-store finds) reveal how scrappy ingenuity fueled their rise.

– Alan Myers — Self (Archive Footage)

Drummer Alan Myers, who died in 2013, was the “human metronome” behind Devo’s mechanical rhythms. His precise, hypnotic beats (heard on “Whip It” and “Beautiful World”) bridged rock and electronic music, inspiring generations of drummers. Archival footage showcases his stoic focus amid the band’s chaos.

The documentary pays tribute to Myers’ underrated genius, with bandmates praising his ability to “play like a machine” while grounding their wildest ideas. His absence is a poignant reminder of Devo’s original lineup’s irreplaceable chemistry.

– Devo — Themselves

Beyond individual members, Devo celebrates the band as a collective—a multimedia art project disguised as a pop act. Their interviews, performances, and archival TV clips paint a portrait of a group that refused to be pigeonholed, whether mocking MTV or predicting tech dystopia.

The film’s climax revisits their cultural impact, from “Whip It”’s unlikely chart success to their influence on acts like Nirvana and Daft Punk. By letting Devo tell their own story—warts, contradictions, and all—the documentary strips away myths to reveal the real humans behind the energy domes.

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Why Devo Matters Now More Than Ever

Premiering August 19, 2025, on Netflix, this documentary isn’t just a nostalgia trip—it’s a wake-up call. In an era of AI, political division, and algorithmic culture, Devo’s warnings about “de-evolution” feel prophetic. Their story is a testament to the power of art to provoke, entertain, and outlast its time.