Richie Hawtin’s ’90s-inspired Detroit techno short hits YouTube
Marking its NOWNESS debut on June 20, Richie Hawtin’s short film Kids Like Us was posted to his YouTube channel on July 7.
Inspired by legacy
Executive produced by Richie Hawtin and directed by Luke Jaden, Kids Like Us draws directly from Hawtin’s legendary Spastik party at Detroit’s abandoned Packard Plant, where he debuted his Plastikman alias in August 1994.
A gritty coming‑of‑age journey
Set in one night among early‑twenty-something misfits, the nine‑minute film, shot on 16mm and 35mm Kodak film, explores identity, connection, and belonging within Detroit’s underground techno scene.
Authentic resonance
Jaden’s aim was authenticity: capturing the raw energy of techno culture through real Detroit rave footage, archival detail, and personal stories of the era.
Richie’s personal imprint
Hawtin contributes both original music and executive oversight, reflecting on this pivotal chapter of his career and honoring the emotional depth of those warehouse parties.