What’s coming soon to Arte.tv in July 2021?
David Farnor | On 07, Jul 2021
This summer has seen the launch of Arte.tv in the UK, a streaming service from the European cultural broadcaster that covers everything from science, history, travel and art to fashion, exploration and music.
This month sees the debut of documentary series Based On A True Story, a profile of songwriter Townes van Zandt, insights into subjects surrounding the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, live opera from The Aix-en-Provence Festival and an exclusive VIP pass to the legendary Berghain nightclub.
Here’s what’s coming to Arte.tv in July 2021:
The Magic Voices of Pop – 1st July
What is the vocal alchemy that propels pop singers to the pinnacle of success, decade after decade? Is it possible to identify common characteristics that make up pop music today and in the past? With interviews with producers, composers and musicians such as DJ Koze, Joy Denalane and Alice Merton, this documentary explores the very essence of the pop voice, from the birth of the genre to its fabulous rise.
Balloon: A Daring Escape – 4th July
In the GDR, at the height of the Cold War, the Strelzyks and Wetzels lived 30 kilometres from the border with the West. Like many East Germans, they were ready to do anything to change their lives. For two years, they put into action a crazy escape plan: to build a hot-air balloon to reach the West by air. One night in September 1979, they boarded their makeshift craft and took off, leaving everything behind. Half an hour later, they land without really knowing if they have succeeded…
Taiwan: A Digital Democracy in China’s Shadow – 6th July
One country, two systems? “Never!” The Taiwanese have stated loud and clear: they will not accept succumbing to China’s rule, whose coastline is located less than 200 kilometres from their island. Under the aegis of President Xi Jinping, Taiwan is attracting more than ever the covetousness of its powerful neighbour, which has never recognised its independence and intends to bring it back into its fold, like Hong Kong. To protect itself from pressure from Beijing, this “de facto” country of 24 million inhabitants, with its own flag, anthem, currency, language and institutions, is countering it with an innovative democracy, driven by digital technology.
The Marriage of Figaro – 9th July
On Friday 9th July at 8.30pm, ARTE.tv will lives-tream the performance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro conducted by Thomas Hengelbrock from The Festival d’Aix-en-Provence – the annual international music festival which takes place each summer in the South of France.
Tokyo 2020: Inside the Heads of Champions – 10th July
“Faster, higher, stronger.” The Olympic motto is becoming increasingly obsolete as the 2021 Tokyo Olympics approach. Studies show that we are at the end of the human species’ physiological capacities and, in the race for medals, the contribution of neuroscience on the mental state of champions is the last frontier to be explored, the last weapon for “smarter” performance. This film shows how great athletes are finding new resources in the company of neuroscientists who are increasingly involved in the preparation of sports competitions.
Be Here to Love Me: Townes van Zandt – 16th July
Townes Van Zandt (1944-1997) was one of the most talented and important songwriters of his generation. This lyrical film portrait uses atmospheric snapshots, archive footage and interviews to sketch the life and career of a genius artist. Over his 30-year musical career Van Zandt never had a solo hit, despite his charismatic vocal performance and guitar technique, but is still adored by many devoted fans all over the world and held in high esteem by the likes of Bob Dylan, Emmylou Harris and Norah Jones.
Tokyo 2020: The Price of Security – 20th July
With almost 38 million inhabitants, Tokyo is the largest metropolitan region in the world. An additional 10 million visitors were expected for the Olympic Games originally planned for 2020. In terms of security, this was an enormous challenge that prompted the host country to undertake enormous deliberations, developments and experiments well in advance. With this kind of security also comes extensive surveillance that few in Japan question and yet which will have far-reaching consequences for citizens.
16 Years of Ostgut Ton – 28th, 29th, 30th July
Enjoy a VIP pass to the world’s most exclusive club with livestreams direct from Berghain to celebrate 16 years of the club’s in-house record label Ostgut Ton. With one of the strictest door policies in clubland, Berghain is notoriously difficult to get into but this July ARTE.tv is “on the list” list for some much-missed hedonistic virtual clubbing.
Arte.tv is available for free online on mobiles and on select smart TVs.
