a-ha: The Movie (2021)

Review Team

4/5

a-ha: The Movie is a compelling documentary that chronicles the rise of the iconic Norwegian band, a-ha. Directed by Thomas Robsahm and Aslaug Holm, the film blends archival footage with contemporary interviews, providing a nuanced look at the band's journey from obscurity to global fame. The narrat ... Show more >> a-ha: The Movie is a compelling documentary that chronicles the rise of the iconic Norwegian band, a-ha. Directed by Thomas Robsahm and Aslaug Holm, the film blends archival footage with contemporary interviews, providing a nuanced look at the band's journey from obscurity to global fame. The narrative is structured around their breakout hit, 'Take On Me', and the subsequent challenges they faced as a group. The film excels in showcasing the tension and camaraderie between band members Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, revealing the complexities of their relationships. The direction is sensitive, allowing the emotional weight of their experiences to resonate. The cinematography captures the essence of the 1980s music scene, and the soundtrack is, of course, a highlight. While the film may appeal most to die-hard fans, it offers valuable insights into the nature of fame and creativity. Overall, a-ha: The Movie is a must-see for anyone interested in music history or the personal stories behind the hits. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

If you're a fan of a-ha, you'll likely find a lot to enjoy in a-ha: The Movie, but it’s not without its flaws. The film offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, packed with interviews and behind-the-scenes snippets that will tug at the heartstrings of long-time fans. However, it sometimes feels lik ... Show more >> If you're a fan of a-ha, you'll likely find a lot to enjoy in a-ha: The Movie, but it’s not without its flaws. The film offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, packed with interviews and behind-the-scenes snippets that will tug at the heartstrings of long-time fans. However, it sometimes feels like it glosses over the more challenging moments in the band's history, opting for a somewhat polished narrative. The band members share their thoughts candidly, which is refreshing, but I wished for a deeper exploration of the conflicts that arose during their rise to fame. The pacing is a bit uneven, making certain segments drag on while others feel rushed. Still, the music is undeniably fantastic, and the film does a decent job of showcasing what made a-ha iconic. It’s worth watching if you have an interest in 80s pop culture, but don’t expect a groundbreaking documentary. It’s more of a loving tribute than a critical examination. Show less