Watch Start the Machine

"Start the Machine" is a 2008 documentary film that provides an in-depth look at the band Angels & Airwaves and their journey during the creation of their debut album "We Don't Need to Whisper." Directed by Mark Eaton, the film stars band members Tom DeLonge, David Kennedy, Adam "Atom" Willard, Ryan Sinn, and Critter. It offers fans a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the highs and lows the band experienced while trying to introduce a new sound and artistic vision to the world.

The documentary opens up with a glimpse into Tom DeLonge's life after his much-publicized departure from the hugely successful punk rock band Blink-182. The film captures DeLonge's ambition and determination to move forward with a new project, one that he describes as more than just a band, but an "art project." This new venture intended to encompass various media forms, including music, film, and space.

"Start the Machine" showcases the formative days of Angels & Airwaves, chronicling the initial meetings between band members and the early jam sessions that would lead to their unique sound. Viewers witness the evolution of an idea into a tangible musical experience as the band works relentlessly to produce their first album. The film is more than a mere recording of album production; it delves deep into the emotional states of each member, the camaraderie built during long hours in the studio, and the struggles to balance personal lives with professional ambitions.

During the film, the audience becomes privy to the creative process of making "We Don't Need to Whisper," observing how each track takes shape and how the band melds their individual influences into a cohesive whole. Our protagonist, Tom DeLonge, comes to the forefront not only as the band's frontman but also as a visionary, pushing everyone involved to transcend traditional rock compositions and reach for something more expansive and meaningful.

Throughout the documentary, there are moments capturing tensions and conflicts that arise. There are the inevitable clashes of creative ideas, as well as the external pressures of the music industry demanding commercial success. These challenges are portrayed against the backdrop of the band's steadfast commitment to their artistic integrity, refusing to compromise their vision for the sake of commerce.

Critter, whose real name is Jeff Forrest, plays a pivotal role in the documentary as the studio engineer. Critter works closely with the band to shape the sonic texture of the album, and his interactions with the band members offer insight into the technical aspects of recording and production. The film pays homage to Critter's contribution to the band's sound and highlights the importance of the artist-engineer relationship in the music creation process.

Music plays a central role in "Start the Machine," both as a score and as a subject. The audience hears snippets of the songs from the album as they come to life in the recording sessions, and fans of Angels & Airwaves will appreciate the chance to hear how tracks evolve from their raw, initial versions to the polished, anthemic tunes familiar from the final release.

"Start the Machine" also delves into the broader themes that inspire Angels & Airwaves' music. The members discuss their hopes to inspire listeners, their desire to touch on profound topics such as love, war, and the human condition, and to ultimately provide a soundtrack that's not just heard but experienced. DeLonge, in particular, is quite vocal about his desire to use music as a means of instigating positive change, hoping to elevate the listener's consciousness through the band's ambitious soundscapes.

In addition to the musical journey, the film touches on DeLonge's interest in space and the unknown, which profoundly influences the themes and aesthetic of Angels & Airwaves. The band's name itself reflects this fascination with aviation and the celestial, and the film captures the conceptual side of their work, giving viewers a sense of the thematic depth that Angels & Airwaves seeks to embody.

Experiencing "Start the Machine" is like being given a backstage pass to Angels & Airwaves' earliest days, taking viewers on a ride through the group's formation, music creation, and the philosophical underpinnings that guide their work. As the band members pour their heart and soul into every chord and lyric, the audience is left with a comprehensive picture of what it takes to reinvent oneself in the music industry and the relentless pursuit of bringing a grand vision to life.