Eno: The Musical Documentary
Directed by Gary Hustwit, "Eno" is a 2024 film that celebrates the life and career of electronic music icon Brian Eno. The film's unique aspect lies in its use of a generative algorithm that selects and edits footage differently each time it is screened.
Using footage from Eno's archive and interviews with the artist himself, the film explores his wide-ranging contributions to music, from his experimental beginnings with Roxy Music to his ambient collaborations with David Bowie and U2. Brain One, the software that generates the film, was designed by Hustwit and artist Brendan Dawes.
The generative nature of "Eno" allows for a dynamic experience. With an estimated 52 quintillion possible versions, each screening offers a unique perspective on Eno's work and his influence on the world of music.
Critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive. Rotten Tomatoes reports a 96% approval rating, while Metacritic gives it a score of 74 out of 100, indicating "generally favorable" reviews. Critics have praised the film's innovative format, with Owen Gleiberman of Variety calling it "accessible within an experimental veneer."