With all the fame surrounding One Direction, it’s no surprise that there was a film made about “the world’s biggest band.” THIS IS US documents Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson as they look back on their past and go on their 2013 world tour. From solo auditions on THE X FACTOR UK to hilarious backstage antics, THIS IS US covers One Direction’s career over the past three years.
The movie starts with baby pictures of each of the 1D members as they talk about growing up and then transitions to them singing “Up All Night” on stage. The film goes through the band’s live set list that was filmed at one of their sold out concerts at the O2 Arena in London, England.
In much of the movie, the band explains their special relationship with their fans. Simon Cowell mentioned how there were girls waiting for the band outside after their very first performance together on THE X FACTOR, calling it unusual. Since then, fans flock together in every city just to get a glimpse of their favourite boys. At one point, Niall describes the fans coming out not in tens or hundreds, but in thousands! Without the fans, the band wouldn’t be where they are now, and they are well aware of that.
The 3D aspect of the film makes the concert portions extra special. It feels as if the 1D boys are waving and pointing right at you! The backdrop and lights of the stage are also brought to life as they become more than just pictures and jump out of the screen.
Backstage and off stage scenes are guaranteed to make you laugh. They go camping, fishing, drive around in golf carts less than an hour before show time, and one member dresses up as a security guard to prank fans (you’ll need to watch the movie to find out who)!
While THIS IS US doesn’t introduce anything new, it is still a must see for Directioners. Between seeing One Direction live on stage to what happens when they get some downtime, this movie has it all. It’s good enough for non-Directioners to enjoy as well!
Rating: 3.5/5
Are you planning to watch ONE DIRECTION: THIS IS US when it hits theatres on August 30?