Start the Machine

"Start the Machine" is a 2008 documentary film that chronicles the behind-the-scenes journey of the rock band Angels & Airwaves during the creation of their debut album "We Don't Need to Whisper." The film features Tom DeLonge, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band, as well as bassist Ryan Sinn, drummer Atom Willard, and guitarist David Kennedy. The documentary captures the band's ambition to deliver a project that blends music, storytelling, and filmmaking into a single artistic experience.

Directed by Mark Eaton and released shortly after the album's debut, "Start the Machine" delves into the off-stage dynamics of the band members, with a significant focus on Tom DeLonge. Known for being a founding member of the punk rock band blink-182, DeLonge's departure from blink-182 was marked by his immediate pivot to creating Angels & Airwaves, known colloquially as AVA. The film presents DeLonge's strong commitment to his vision for the band, showcasing his desire to produce unique and inspirational music with an overarching theme of hope and humanity.

The documentary derives its name from one of the tracks on the album, and it does an excellent job of conveying the thematic resonance of starting anew, a nod to the band's efforts to establish themselves in a music industry replete with expectations and preconceived notions about DeLonge's musical trajectory post-blink-182. The title "Start the Machine" represents both a literal and metaphorical rebirth, a process of crafting a new sound, a new image, and essentially, a new machine.

Throughout the film, audiences gain intimate access to the band's creative process, from the songwriting sessions to the arduous recording phase, as well as the intricate sound mixing that gave their album its distinctive audio landscape. The documentary is replete with in-studio footage, providing a raw and unfiltered look at the challenges and triumphs that come with producing an album that aspired to break molds and push boundaries.

"Start the Machine" also functions as a human interest piece, shedding light on the personal lives of the band members, their passions, their fears, and their dreams. Through interviews, behind-the-scenes banter, and candid moments, viewers watch the camaraderie and tension that often accompanies creative collaboration. Additionally, the film touches upon the marketing and promotional strategies that the band undertook to ensure their music reached a broad audience.

Adding another layer to the narrative, the film includes moments with Critter, the band’s sound engineer and a significant personality behind the scenes. Critter, known for his patience and technical expertise, serves as the backbone of the recording process, helping to shape the final sound that defines the first artistic expression of Angels & Airwaves. His quiet dedication and steadfast loyalty to the band's vision add both humor and gravity to the storyline.

The documentary is not solely about making music; it's also about taking risks and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment. DeLonge's leadership is tested as he steers the band through uncertain waters, fighting to maintain integrity and authenticity in their work, while dealing with the pressures of living up to his past success with blink-182. It is a transformative period, captured on film, documenting the evolution of a musician trying to redefine his identity and the identity of his new band.

Furthermore, "Start the Machine" explores the broader implications of starting over in the public eye, touching on themes of redemption, legacy, and the poignant question of whether one can truly escape the shadow of former glory. It underscores the notion that reinvention is not about forgetting the past but about building upon the lessons learned from it.

Despite the strong focus on DeLonge, "Start the Machine" does a commendable job in ensuring that the other band members' voices and experiences are not overshadowed. It offers an equitable perspective on the band's dynamic, emphasizing the egalitarian nature of their project where each member’s contribution is essential to the collective success.

Not just for fans of Angels & Airwaves, "Start the Machine" serves as an inspiring watch for anyone interested in the transformative power of art and the trials and tribulations involved in bringing a creative vision to life. It's a testament to the tenacity required to rise above skeptics and criticism, reminding viewers that the most formidable machine one can start is the one fueled by raw passion and undeterred determination.