Urgh! A Music War 1981
"Stand up & dance!"
Immerse yourself in the raw energy of early 1980s punk, new wave, and post-punk music with *Urgh! A Music War* (1981), a British documentary that captures the rebellious spirit of the era.
Director: Derek Burbidge
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Urgh! A Music War (1981) about?
*Urgh! A Music War* is a British documentary that captures the explosive live performances of punk, new wave, and post-punk artists filmed in 1980. The film isn't just a collection of songs—it's a vibrant portrayal of a music scene on the brink of cultural change, where raw energy and artistic rebellion collide.
Who directed Urgh! A Music War?
Derek Burbidge directed *Urgh! A Music War*, guiding the lens with a keen eye for the electrifying energy of live music.
Who stars in Urgh! A Music War?
The documentary features high-energy performances by Sting, Toyah Willcox, Jello Biafra, Stewart Copeland, and Andy Summers, among many others.
Is Urgh! A Music War (1981) worth watching?
Absolutely—if you crave a film that's equal parts music history and visual spectacle, *Urgh! A Music War* delivers. Its unfiltered glimpse into the 1980s music scene, paired with unforgettable performances from iconic and lesser-known acts alike, makes it a must-watch for music lovers and documentary enthusiasts.
How long is Urgh! A Music War?
The runtime of *Urgh! A Music War* is 121 minutes, offering plenty of time to soak in the era's most iconic performances.
🎥 Trailer
About Urgh! A Music War (1981) — Punk, New Wave, and Post-Punk's Most Electric Moments
Immerse yourself in the raw energy of early 1980s punk, new wave, and post-punk music with *Urgh! A Music War* (1981), a British documentary that captures the rebellious spirit of the era. Directed by Derek Burbidge, this film transports viewers to the front rows of legendary live performances filmed in 1980, showcasing a who's-who of underground and emerging artists. With a pulsating soundtrack featuring The Police, The Go-Go's, Devo, Dead Kennedys, Gary Numan, and many more, the movie isn't just a concert film—it's a time capsule of artistic defiance and sonic innovation.
The atmosphere crackles with the intensity of a movement on the rise, blending gritty punk anthems with quirky new wave hooks and hypnotic post-punk rhythms. Burbidge's direction balances electrifying stage visuals with candid behind-the-scenes moments, creating a documentary that feels as much like a cultural artifact as it does a celebration of music. Whether you're a nostalgic fan of the era or a newcomer discovering these groundbreaking acts for the first time, *Urgh! A Music War* delivers an unforgettable rush of sound, style, and rebellion.