By Ed Sum (The Vintage Tempest)
One of my first reactions to first hearing about the comedy movie Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is in wondering if the story is going to be anything like Journey’s song, “Don’t Stop Believing?” In some ways, it does but forgoes the dynamics of a small town girl and a boy becoming close. Unlike the film, their success does not mean them breaking up and leading separate lives but instead examines how difficult it is to stay ahead of the game. In what’s presented is downright hilarious. This movie comes close to mirroring the ingenuity of This is Spinal Tap!
Very few musicians are lucky to consistently belong at the top of the music charts. Some struggle, like Conner Friel (Andy Samberg), to maintain their integrity. At the start of his career, he forms a rap trio, The Style Boyz with childhood friends Owen (Jorma Taccone) and Lawrence (Akiva Schaffer). They were set to be true pioneers during a musical award show simply referenced The Poppy’s. But when Lawrence hears Conner not giving credit to where it’s due, a rift forms. He leaves, and Owen almost does too… Unaware of all the hurt feelings going on due to Friel’s ever growing ego, this mockumentary goes places which are undeniably funny.
Continue reading “Conner4Reel is an Underdog Needing Brothers in Popstar”