Ten years ago, the world missed out on a comedic masterpiece, "Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping." This movie, crafted by the hilarious trio of Andy Samberg, Jorma Taccone, and Akiva Schaffer (known collectively as The Lonely Island), was a cult classic in the making, yet it initially bombed at the box office. The film follows the fictional pop star Connor4Real (played by Samberg) and his tumultuous journey to stardom. The story begins with Connor's massive success with his first album, "Thriller, Also," and the highly anticipated follow-up, "Connquest." However, "Connquest" receives devastating reviews, with one critic giving it a literal 's**t emoji.'
The movie delves into Connor's rise to fame as the lead singer of the Style Boyz, a group he formed with his childhood friends Lawrence 'Kid Brain' Dunn (Schaffer) and Owen 'Kid Contact' Bouchard (Taccone). The trio's dynamic is a highlight, showcasing their enduring friendship and the power of collaboration. The film is a musical comedy extravaganza, with The Lonely Island's expertise shining through. The music is genuinely good, and the jokes are delivered with precision, making it a brilliant and entertaining watch.
One of the movie's standout moments is the 'bee scene,' which, according to a Rolling Stone oral history, was originally much longer and even more hilarious. The film also features a diverse range of cameos, including Ringo Starr, Emma Stone, and Nas, adding to the overall charm. The song 'Equal Rights' is a hesitant gay anthem, celebrating queer love while maintaining Connor's heterosexuality. 'Finest Girl(Bin Laden)' is another standout, with Connor's tryst involving a woman with a specific request.
What makes "Popstar" truly special is its ability to capture the essence of friendship and the magic that happens when these three friends reunite. Jorma Taccone, in a Rolling Stone interview, expressed the sentiment that the movie is a document of their friendship, a testament to the power of their bond. The film's earnestness and the trio's real-life friendship make it a unique and endearing watch.
Despite its initial box office failure, "Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping" has become a cult classic, and it's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates smart comedy and heartfelt storytelling. The Lonely Island's talent and their ability to create a movie that is both hilarious and deeply personal make it a timeless gem in the world of cinema.
