Review of Justin Bieber: Never Say Never (2011) by Nathan C — 23 Oct 2011

Looking for a scary movie? Forget about "Paranormal Activity". Here's Justin Bieber and his improbable saga. America's obsession with this phenomenon is unsettling, but the movie itself is a dull, one-sided flick that feels much like a padded-on MTV reality show. However, those infected with the Bieber Fever (more contagious than the disease in "Contagion", ha!) will eat it up.

It would be a concert movie a la Hanna Montana or Jonas Brothers or whatever as we see him performing in Madison Square Garden. But it riffs from "Behind the Music", only it focuses mostly on his childhood, how he came to be famous, and his grapples with fame and other stuff. Insightful or exploitative? You decide.

This chronicling proves to be very tiring for both JB and the audience. Incoherent editing, annoying 3D that serves no purpose, and, of course, his awful songs are the highlight here. The documentary aspect doesn't feel true-to-life, as if certain parts of his personality were edited out. Massive fandom and excess hype do nothing to help matters, as usually would be expected. The guest appearances are more of a tie-in than a support to him. Just when one roots for his vocal problems (throat infection, actually) to defeat him, thus pops in a deus ex machina anticlimax, leaving one sorely disappointed. Lame.

However, yeah, it's cool that you have a talent in music, Justin, and that you've shown us how you came from point A to point B, but if only it were done in a more entertaining manner... or if it were less creepy. Maybe you'll have to move on to a new type of music... or something, in order to truly show your worth. Concert scenes have an energy to them, and they look visually appealing.

Overall, if you hate Justin Bieber, this film won't change your mind. Lovers and admirers will find this to be "OMG! Incredible!". My opinion is that, despite the whole chutzpah brought in and whatnot, that it sucked immensely. There, I just said "Never" in response to this abomination. What now?

Side note: However, if it's a sign of the times, our music industry is heading on a rockier path, and the denizens of humanity (mostly female) will continue obsessing over material, untouchable fantasies. And there'll be higher expectations on children to entertain, just so they could be used as a brand and discarded (?) in the end. With the implications brought upon our society, that's just sad and eerie.