Arcade Fire had the US debut of their documentary The Reflektor Tapes, last night at The Theatre at Ace Hotel in Downtown, Los Angeles hosted by Noisey. Inside the gothic-style landmark reminiscent of Spain’s famous La Sagrada Familia, the premiere felt more like a concert than a screening. Fans flocked to the show adorned in their Arcade Fire t-shirts excited to see band members Win Butler and Régine Chassagne who were present at the premiere.
When Win and Régine graced the audience with their presence prior to the start of the film, they were welcomed with wild applause from their die-hard fans. They said their hellos and shed some light on the film. Régine mentioned that the film was slightly weird and reflects what they wanted (pun intended). Win stood and recited “So You Want To Be a Writer” by American author Charles Bukowski.
Without giving too much away (Spoiler alert: They all survive), the film itself is told through a loose narrative that documents the band’s journey in the creation of their album Reflektor. Heavily inspired by Haitian music and culture, viewers are given a glimpse into what the band experienced when visiting and playing in Haiti. The film feels more like a music video than a documentary with its captivating music and mesmerizing visuals.
The crowd cheered once the credits began rolling. Win and Régine returned to the front of the theater for a Q&A session.
The creation of the film stemmed from all the footage that was already available from their album. The images and videos were compiled and turned into a movie by director Kahlil Joseph.
Win and Régine were full of jokes and played with the energy of the crowd. They mentioned that Los Angeles had some of the best questions they’ve ever been asked in an interview. When they were called out on about a mistake in their film regarding an incorrect date, they were good sports about it and Régine mentioned it was previously flagged but left unfixed.
Laughter filled the theater continuously with each question thrown at them. Very humble and down-to-earth, the room connected to the couple on a personal level. Win even urged parents who had babysitters to leave if they wanted to.
Once the Q&A was complete, the theater was emptied and the next event was held at the Upstairs Bar at the Ace Hotel where Win DJ’ed for the party. Also known as DJ Windows 98, he played an eclectic mix of old and new dance songs. The venue was small enough where fans were able to approach and engage with Win or Régine.
Be sure to catch the documentary from Arcade Fire when The Reflektor Tapes releases tomorrow.
Photo Credit: Lucy Tcherniak
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