All right, buddies, gather round for some good ol’ movie talk. Today, we’re diving into *Mistaken for Strangers*, you know, that docu-thingy about the band The National. Now, here’s a heads-up, this film ain’t your usual rock documentary. It’s more like an awkward family Christmas dinner, but with guitars and drums.
Directed by Tom Berninger, brother of The National’s frontman Matt Berninger, this film’s all over the place — in a good way. Tom, bless his heart, he’s like the black sheep of the family, trying to find his place. I mean, who hasn’t felt like that, right? It’s like when I tried to make raggmunk for the family and it went up in smoke, literally. So, imagine Tom, not exactly fitting in with the band and just being this lovable klutz.
On the one hand, you’ve got Matt, who seems like he’s got it all figured out, and then there’s Tom, who feels a bit lost. It didn’t remind me of a typical rock-doc; it reminded me of hanging out with your weird cousins during midsummer—like, “What are you doing with your life?” but in a caring, no-pressure kinda way.
Visually, this film doesn’t indulge in those grand concert pyrotechnics. Instead, it’s more about the backstage chaos, the intimate moments, those tiny human flaws. You almost hear the clattering of dishes in a typical Swedish kitchen. It’s raw, real, and endearing… though sometimes you might cringe so hard you feel it in your bones.
But honestly, some parts drag a bit. Maybe I’m just impatient, or maybe those reflective moments got a bit too reflective, you know?
Best part? It hits you with some hilarious spots. Like when Tom’s trying to film stuff and just bumbles around – it’s like he’s got his head down a moose’s antler. Hell, who can’t relate to feeling out of place and trying to find your footing in life?
If you’re up for something offbeat, with awkward charm and endearing chaos, give *Mistaken for Strangers* a peek. Might even make you wanna call your own sibling and ask, “Hej, ska vi fika?”
You can catch the trailer here: Mistaken for Strangers
