Shut Up and Play the Hits

On April 2nd, 2011, LCD Soundsystem held their final performance at Madison Square Garden, a monumental event orchestrated by frontman James Murphy. In a bold move, he chose to dissolve one of the most impactful bands of their generation while they stood at the zenith of their success. This remarkable decision guaranteed that they would exit the scene on a high note, delivering their most grandiose concert to date.

The nearly four-hour sold-out spectacle not only thrilled the audience but also inspired tears of both joy and sorrow. NEW YORK magazine hailed it as “a marvel of pure craft,” while TIME magazine expressed a wistful sentiment with the words, “we may never dance again.”

SHUT UP AND PLAY THE HITS serves as both a cinematic documentation of this unique performance and an insightful look into James Murphy as he navigates the emotional tides leading up to the event, the aftermath, and the intimate personal and professional impacts of his choice. Directed by Dylan Southern and Will Lovelace, and produced by Lucas Ochoa and Thomas Benski of Pulse Films—the same innovators behind the acclaimed Blur documentary, NO DISTANCE LEFT TO RUN—the film offers a profound exploration of Murphy’s journey.

The executive producer for this project is Christine Vachon, known for her work on acclaimed films such as I’M NOT THERE, FAR FROM HEAVEN, and BOYS DON’T CRY. Other key figures include former LCD manager Keith Wood and The Creators Project.

The highly anticipated film is set to make its debut at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, marking a poignant moment in music history and the conclusion of an era for one of the defining acts of its time.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 21:49