'Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie' Review: A Grating Mockumentary

Released on Friday, February 13, Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie is a feature-length extension of a previously successful web and television series originating in Canada. The film, directed by and starring Matt Johnson, has garnered both enthusiastic fans and critical skepticism, described by one reviewer as an “acquired taste” akin to the Canadian dish, poutine.

A Canadian Take on Time Travel

The film centers on musicians Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol, initially seen in 2008 attempting to secure a performance at Toronto’s The Rivoli. Seventeen years later, they are still pursuing that same gig, leading to an outlandish plan involving a stunt at the CN Tower and a Blue Jays game. This initial attempt fails, prompting a more ambitious scheme: time travel.

Did You Know? The film incorporates footage from the original web series, grounding the narrative in its established history.

Homage and Humor

Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie draws clear inspiration from films like Back to the Future and Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The time travel is facilitated by a makeshift machine fueled by Orbitz, a discontinued novelty drink, and transports Johnson and McCarrol back to 2008. This journey allows for jokes referencing the cultural landscape of the time, including figures like Bill Cosby and Canadian radio host Jian Ghomeshi.

The plot thickens as the duo’s friendship dissolves, with McCarrol achieving pop stardom and eventually becoming a fugitive. The film features a cast including Matt Johnson, Jay McCarrol, Ben Petrie, Ethan Eng, Michael Scott, Reid Janisse, Steve Hamelin, Luke Lalonde, Maddy Wilde, and Mitch Derosie. The 1 hour and 35-minute film also showcases Johnson’s technical skills, blending footage and creating convincing visual sequences, such as the CN Tower jump.

Expert Insight: The film’s reliance on established tropes and specific Canadian references suggests a targeted audience, potentially limiting its broader appeal despite technical achievements.

Critical Reception and Potential Future

While some find the film hilarious, others view it as sophomoric and repetitive, “beating mildly silly jokes…into the ground.” The characters, particularly Matt Johnson’s, are described as grating, potentially hindering the development of the endearing dynamic seen in films like Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The film’s humor often relies on the characters’ excessive politeness, repeatedly apologizing and thanking those around them.

If the film performs well, a possible next step could be further exploration of the characters and their adventures. Analysts expect that the success of the web and television series may contribute to continued interest in the franchise. However, whether this translates into broader recognition remains to be seen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central premise of the film?

The film follows musicians Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol as they attempt to gain notoriety and finally play a gig at Toronto’s The Rivoli, ultimately resorting to time travel as a publicity stunt.

Who directed and starred in the movie?

Matt Johnson directed and starred in Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, alongside Jay McCarrol.

What other films is this movie being compared to?

The film is being compared to Back to the Future and Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure due to its similar themes and comedic style.

Does a film need to be universally appealing to be successful?

‘Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie’ Review: A Grating Mockumentary