Depeche Mode: M

If you're a Depeche Mode fan—or just someone who appreciates a powerful mix of music, culture, and emotion—then Depeche Mode: M is a must-watch. This 95-minute concert documentary dives deep into the band’s 2023 performances in Mexico City, capturing not just the energy of the shows but also the deeper themes that surround them.

Directed by Fernando Frías de la Parra, known for his work on I'm No Longer Here, the film takes you right into the heart of three sold-out nights at Foro Sol stadium, where nearly 200,000 fans gathered to see the legendary English electronic band. But this isn’t just a concert film. Depeche Mode: M blends live footage with archival clips and cultural interludes, creating a layered experience that explores music, mortality, and Mexico’s unique relationship with death.

The performances were part of the Memento Mori World Tour, supporting the band’s fifteenth studio album—their first since the passing of founding member Andy Fletcher in 2022. That loss, and the themes of the album, echo throughout the film, giving it a reflective and emotional tone that goes beyond the stage.

Visually, the film is stunning, thanks to cinematographer Damián García. The editing team—Yibrán Asuad, Melisa San Vincente, and Liora Spilk—keeps the pace tight and engaging, while producers Stacy Perskie Kaniss, Nina Soriano, and Saul Levitz help bring it all together. The result is a cinematic journey that’s as much about connection and tradition as it is about the music.

Dave Gahan and Martin Gore lead the charge on stage, and their presence is as magnetic as ever. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the band, their performance is captivating. The film also offers a unique cultural lens, using Mexico’s traditions surrounding death to add depth and resonance to the music.

If you're into concert films with heart and substance, this one’s for you. But if you're looking for a straightforward music documentary without much emotional or cultural exploration, this might not be your vibe. Either way, Depeche Mode: M is a bold and thoughtful tribute to a band that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.