Depeche Mode: M is far more than a traditional concert documentary—it’s a reflection on life, loss, and the enduring spirit of one of the world’s most influential electronic bands. The film arrives following the passing of Andy Fletcher in 2022, a moment that profoundly reshaped the band’s path. As Dave Gahan and Martin Gore embarked on their Memento Mori tour in 2023, they carried not only new music but also the emotional weight of navigating grief. Mexican filmmaker Fernando Frias joined them on this journey, capturing their performances in Mexico City while infusing the project with his culture’s deep, symbolic connection to death.
Frias combines live concert energy with interpretive visual segments and archival memories, creating a layered experience that goes beyond performance. His aim was not just to document a tour but to explore how art, culture, and mortality intertwine—an approach that gives the film its emotional gravity. Through these contrasting elements, Depeche Mode: M becomes a meditation on how music helps us honor those we’ve lost and how artists continue creating even in the face of heartbreak.
On the cinematic side of things, the film has sparked thoughtful conversations about its structure and impact. Milwaukee Film’s Kristopher Pollard and Radio Milwaukee’s Dori Zori gathered a panel with strong ties to both music and film to discuss its themes. Representing the music community was DJ and longtime Depeche Mode fan Kenny Perez, while multidisciplinary artist and film-focused creative Paula Lovo offered a fresh perspective—particularly valuable as someone less familiar with the band. Together, they explored the movie’s emotional resonance, cultural connections, and its appeal to both devoted fans and newcomers alike.
Throughout their discussion, the panelists reflected on how the film bridges the gap between documentary and artistic expression. They also compared it with other memorable concert films and shared personal stories about the movies that shaped their love for cinema. The conversation naturally drifted to lighter topics—like favorite comedies—as a way of balancing the film’s heavy focus on mortality. This mix of introspection and levity shows how Depeche Mode: M encourages viewers to consider life’s deeper questions while still celebrating the power of performance.
In the end, Depeche Mode: M stands as a tribute not just to the band’s legacy but to Andy Fletcher himself. It captures the way music can carry us through grief while keeping alive the memories of those who helped shape the soundtrack of our lives. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Depeche Mode for the first time, the film offers an evocative, moving experience that lingers long after the final note
