New Breed Documentary 1989 (2016): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2016, New Breed Documentary 1989 is a music and documentary film directed by John Woods, running about 69 minutes.

What it’s about. The New Breed Documentary chronicles a cassette compilation put out by Freddy Alva & Chaka Malik in 1989. New York Hardcore was undergoing a transition at the end of the 80's & this generational shift was exemplified by the bands that were featured on the compilation.The story of the tape is at heart the story of NYC & kids that grew up in it's five boroughs as well as related outposts in Long Island/Yonkers. A unique set of social/economic circumstances during the 70's & 80's forged the individuals that went on to make up the New York Hardcore scene. This full length documentary profiles band members/fanzine editors/record label heads & fans that made up this vibrant scene with narration by NYHC book author Tony Rettman. It's unheard of for a feature film to focus on an outdated analog format like a cassette compilation but it is through the eyes of these individuals that a spotlight is shined onto those tumultuous times & what is ultimately a tribute to a bygone era.

Who’s in it. New Breed Documentary 1989 stars Djinji Brown as Himself, James Damon as Himself, Kevin Egan as Himself and Andy Guida as Himself, among others.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch New Breed Documentary 1989 page.

If you liked it. Fans of New Breed Documentary 1989 tend to enjoy Whiplash, Coco, Green Book and The Legend of 1900.