Loosely acting as a prequel to the L.A. based "All Ears" documentary, The Unseen provides rare insights into a scene that has remained distant from the public eye while giving birth to some of the culture's richest and most influential sounds. The film glimpses the hidden and elusive characteristics inherent in a city often depicted in a one dimensional light.

The documentary merges mid-late 1990s Detroit hip hop history with present day interviews and home studio footage with contemporary producers. The VHS footage is exclusively from the vaults of audiovisual archivist Justin Kovar. The non-linear structure of the film is reflective of the sketchpad style format of a beat tape. There is an emphasis on spiritual and city-specific motivations of the community, while there are central reflections on the influences of two late original Slum Village members, James ‘J Dilla’ Yancey and Titus ‘Baatin’ Glover. Also featuring interviews with and musical contributions from Amp Fiddler, Dakim, Quelle Chris and Waajeed among others.

Screening as part of HIJACK! QFT MIXTAPE VOL. 1 – a weekend of music-themed films selected by the staff of your friendly neighbourhood cinema. Presented in partnership with The Thin Air.