Watch Future Shock: The Story of 2000 AD

Future Shock: The Story of 2000 AD is a compelling documentary that delves into the fascinating history of the British comics institution, 2000 AD. Released in 2014, the film is directed by Paul Goodwin and features interviews with some of the iconic writers and artists who have graced the pages of the publication over the years. The movie provides an insight into the birth and development of 2000 AD, from its inception in 1977 as a spin-off of a science fiction comic called Action. The documentary explores how the publication was inspired by a combination of American comics like Heavy Metal and the British punk rock movement of the late 1970s. It quickly became known for its blend of futuristic and gritty storytelling, featuring a range of diverse and complex characters.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is the way it explores the socio-political context in which 2000 AD was created. The documentary highlights how the stories and characters reflected the anxieties of the time, with many of them tackling issues such as racism, war, and corruption head-on. The comic was known for its satirical tone and its willingness to challenge societal norms and expectations.

The movie features interviews with some of the biggest names in the world of British comics, including Dan Abnett, Geoff Barrow, and Emma Beeby. These writers and artists reflect on their experiences working with the publication and share stories about the creative process behind some of the most memorable characters and storylines.

The movie also features behind-the-scenes footage of some of the artists at work, illustrating the incredible attention to detail that went into creating the comic's distinctive style. The documentary explores how artists like Dave Gibbons and Brian Bolland helped to establish 2000 AD's visual identity and how their work has had a lasting influence on the comic book industry as a whole.

Despite its focus on British comics, the film explores several themes that will be familiar to fans of sci-fi and comics from all over the world. It touches on questions about the role of technology in society, the nature of heroism, and the importance of storytelling as a means of resistance against oppressive regimes.

Future Shock: The Story of 2000 AD is a well-crafted documentary that offers a comprehensive look at the history and legacy of one of the most innovative and influential comics in the world. Its use of interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creative process make it an engaging and informative watch for both fans of 2000 AD and newcomers to the world of comics.

Future Shock: The Story of 2000 AD is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.