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Decoder | |
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![]() Theatrical release poster | |
Directed by | Muscha |
Written by |
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Produced by |
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Starring | |
Cinematography | Johanna Heer |
Edited by |
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Production company | Fett Film |
Distributed by | Freunde der Deutschen Kinemathek |
Release date |
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Running time | 87 minutes |
Country | West Germany |
Languages |
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Decoder is a 1984 West German film directed by Muscha. It is a cyberpunk and counter-cultural film loosely based on the writings of William S. Burroughs, who also acts in the film. [2]
The film follows Jaeger ("Hunter", played by Bill Rice), a government agent tasked with suppressing dissent. His efforts are disrupted when a musician (F.M. Einheit) discovers that replacing the calming background music at a burger shop with abrasive industrial music can spark riots, setting off a revolution.
Decoder was made on a small budget and written by Muscha, Klaus Maeck, Volker Schäfer, and Trini Trimpop. Despite its limited resources, the production attracted a number of notable figures from the countercultural and industrial music scenes. The cast includes William S. Burroughs, Genesis P-Orridge, and Christiane Felscherinow. Bands whose music was featured in the film include Soft Cell, Psychic TV, Einstürzende Neubauten, and The The. [3]
The film was considered "oddly forgotten" and remained largely inaccessible for many years. [3] In 2019, it was re-released on Blu-ray and DVD by Vinegar Syndrome. [4]