The Summer Of Rave 1989

The Summer Of Rave 1989

This captivating documentary produced by the BBC explores the emergence of rave culture in the United Kingdom, focusing on the vibrant and transformative summer of 1989. It delves into the music, fashion, and social dynamics of the time, illustrating how underground parties and electronic dance music revolutionized youth culture and created a lasting impact on the British social landscape.

The summer of 1989 saw a new type of youth rebellion transform the cultural landscape, as thousands of young people danced at illegal acid house parties in fields and aircraft hangars. Dubbed the “second summer of love,” partly due to the euphoric effects of the new drug ecstasy, it represented a benign form of revolution. However, lurid tabloid headlines, cat-and-mouse games with the police, and a gangster element eventually soured this dream.

The documentary features interviews with rave promoters, newspaper editors, and bands that rose to fame as a result of rave culture. Directed and produced by Anna Davies.