Watch New Wave: Dare to Be Different

New Wave: Dare to Be Different is a documentary film that takes a nostalgic journey back to the late 1970s and early 1980s when alternative music was breaking through into mainstream culture in America. The film captures the rise of a radio station that was instrumental in bringing new music to audiences who were hungry for something different.

This film takes the viewer back to a time when analog synthesizers, spiky hair, and punk fashion were all the rage. We are introduced to WLIR, a radio station that broadcasted from Long Island, New York. WLIR was unlike any other radio station at the time as it played songs from a diverse range of musicians that had not yet been heard on traditional radio. With its 3,000-watt signal that reached New York City, the station's popularity began to spread.

The film is filled with interviews with the people who were there when it all happened. From the DJs and station employees who selected the music to the musicians themselves who shared their enthusiasm for WLIR, the documentary offers a fascinating glimpse into a time and place when something new and exciting was happening in music.

The film also explores the social and cultural context of the time, which was significantly different from today. From the emergence of MTV to the rise of Ronald Reagan, the film shows how the music at WLIR had a significant impact on the youth culture of the time.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way in which it highlights the power of music to bring people together. Through interviews, old concert footage, and stories from the musicians themselves, we see how music can unite people from different backgrounds and help them to feel like they are part of something important.

Ultimately, New Wave: Dare to Be Different is a powerful reminder of the role that music can play in our lives. It showcases how a group of passionate people can come together around a common goal and make a difference in the world. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in music history or cultural change, and it is sure to leave viewers feeling nostalgic for a time gone by.

New Wave: Dare to Be Different is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.