Despite the fact that electronic dance music originated as a safe space for those who felt they didn’t belong, it is no secret that today’s scene is severely lacking in diversity. A new documentary, Underplayed, seeks to highlight this feature by homing in on the absence of female DJ/producer voices and bringing issues of gender-, ethnicity- and sexuality-based discrimination to the forefront.
Underplayed features an impressive slate of artists including REZZ, Alison Wonderland, TOKiMONSTA, TYGAPAW, NERVO, and Anna Lunoe. Even though the statistics are disheartening and the personal stories of these pioneering women are fraught with uphill battles, the film ultimately conveys an uplifting, inspiring take, providing aspiring female musicians with an impressive roster of role models.
The documentary, directed by Stacey Lee and produced by Bud Light Canada, Director X, and Taj Crichlow, is set to premiere on September 19 at the Toronto International Film Festival. Following the film’s debut, REZZ will perform a special set for festival attendees.
Watch the official trailer for Underplayed below.
Featured image: GQ UK
