We’re a bit late on this one but nonetheless, we’re here. Not to plug my own articles but a good post to read before watching this movie is our history of Colombian music which you can read here. J Balvin is one of my favorite artists of all time and after this film, one of my favorite people.
The Boy From Medellin shows us a different side of one of the biggest artists in the world. This isn’t a film about J Balvin, it’s a film about Jose Alvaro Osario Balvin. As he states himself, J Balvin is the character that shows up when he’s on stage and performing. Jose is who he is. This film gives us a deep look into that.
I came away from this film with a greater appreciation for Balvin the man. This isn’t a typical concert film, it’s a look into the psyche of J Balvin with his massive concert in his home town of Medellin serving as the vehicle for our look into his life. The concert scenes were electric when they came. The show looked amazing and was beautifully shot.
Balvin spends much of the film discussing mental health and mental health issues. It’s a cause that Balvin obviously feels passionately about and a field he has done a lot of work in. His own mental health is an issue that manifests throughout the film, especially as his anxiety rises right before his show.
On a broader note, this film hits on a broader theme that’s played out across pop culture for years. What responsibility do artists have to comment on social and political issues? Throughout the film, we see Balvin struggle with that question. For the most part, he feels like it isn’t his place to comment. Scooter Braun, J Balvin’s manager, directly tells Balvin he needs to talk about the protests that had been occurring throughout Colombia. Other commenters take the stance that Balvin has a responsibility to talk about the issue.
Criticism
Balvin’s final decision to talk about the protests and to give some thoughts on the events seems to run counter to the Balvin we saw throughout the rest of the film. Balvin was purposely trying to avoid commenting on the issue until the concert. The sudden change seems a bit strange considering earlier statements in the film.
I also wish we were able to have more footage from the concert as well. More time could have also been spent talking about Balvin’s musical biography and some other parts of his early career.
Final Score
The Boy from Medellin is a fascinating look into the mind and personality of one of the biggest stars in the world. The authenticity of Balvin as well as the commentary on mental health and social issues make this movie worth the investment. While the final message may feel a little forced, Balvin is authentic and real in this film and the concert footage is fantastic.
7.5/10