Justin Bieber - Never Say Never

The name Justin Bieber currently evokes only two possible reactions: either ecstatic screaming, or annoyed rolled eyes. But no matter how you feel about the latest teen sensation, one thing can't be denied about Bieber: the kid has talent, and it's being marketed very cleverly to boot. In "Never Say Never", "Step Up 3" director Jon Chu traces the Canadian's career, and to the delight of fans, in 3D too!

The hook of the "documentary" is a concert Justin Bieber performed at the legendary Madison Square Garden in New York. The viewer can watch the preparations for the event and also gets to see some clips from the concert. These are also the moments where the 3D effect comes into play, when Bieber points or reaches directly into the audience, then there should be loud screams in the cinema hall. The footage is spiked with quite a few interviews with family members, colleagues, friends and of course Bieber himself, as well as private footage and those You Tube videos that made the boy famous in the first place.

When a still very young Justin Bieber gets behind the drums and jams with jazz musicians, when he sings with a crystal clear voice and plays guitar along with it, there is simply no denying his musical talent. Sure, that comparisons are drawn to the Beatles, Michael Jackson or the Rolling Stones throughout the film is a bit of a stretch. Justin Bieber is far from being in that league. But the fact that he's being attacked and labeled as a marketing product just doesn't do justice to his talent. Especially the short appearance of Jaden Smith shows this very clearly. Jaden Smith is only on this stage because he is the son of Will Smith, not because he is blessed with an incredible talent. Because what he delivers here musically is beyond weak and truly doesn't live up to the cocky posturing he displays behind the scenes. Bieber, on the other hand, seems to have at least stayed grounded and actually CAN do something. No one has to like Justin Bieber, just accept that he has millions of fans and makes a lot of young girls in particular damn happy with his music. Just how much is made very clear throughout the movie.

Admittedly, some moments in the film are almost touching in their naivety, such as when superstar Bieber is urged to clean his room first before going out with his friends. And it could have been worked out a little more clearly how much hard work and deprivation it takes to live a life like Justin Bieber's. But basically, none of that matters. Because "Never Say Never" is made solely for viewers who are infected with Bieber fever. And they get their money's worth here. Yes, the film is a pure marketing product, but as such it can at least convince in terms of craftsmanship. A gift to fans who can languish for almost two hours, that's all the film is - but it doesn't want to be!

An article by Frankfurt-Tipp