Netflix’s Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga Early Review

Ever since the first clip of Netflix’s latest musical comedy. Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, dropped just over a month ago, we have been treated to the flamboyantly dressed Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams singing the over-the-top yet incredibly effective Volcano Man, staying in our heads (I’ve watched it dozens of times since it first dropped on YouTube) and creating plenty of anticipation among watchers. Based on the uber-popular music competition, the film definitely has a lot to live up to. Now that the film is finally upon us, it is safe to say that it lives up to that level, bringing the theatrics in the form of some entertaining performances while also giving viewers a compelling central story to tie it all together with plenty of heart. Not to mention, the film is hilarious but not in the way that many may think.

That aforementioned clip sets up Eurovision rather nicely as it was a misfit story that saw a pair of aspiring Icelandic musicians and friends since childhood (or maybe siblings), Lars Erickssong (Ferrell) and Sigrit Ericksdottir (McAdams), who get the chance to represent their country at the world’s biggest song competition, Eurovision. Lars and Sigrit were a pair of dreamers who have always had to prove themselves as musicians and music to not only each other but also the other residents in their small town. Ever since he was a young boy, Lars had dreams of winning Eurovision which weren’t necessarily compatible with the dynamics of his small town, especially rubbing his father Erick (Brosnan) the wrong way (he wanted Lars to grow up and have a real job). Meanwhile, it was the evolving feelings between Lars and Sigrit that kept them together. Were they friends, colleagues, or something more? Nevertheless, they supported each other and suffice it to say that these sudden new heights would challenge their relationship.

Lars and Sigrit’s group, Fire Saga, may have been a collaboration but in the end, it was really a one man show as Lars and his ambition that mostly steered the ship (blinding him from reality). Again, while they both had dreams, their approaches were very different and occasionally came at odds with one another. Thanks to a chance turn of events, this time around was different for them. Though all they wanted was to be taken seriously as a group and not as a laughing stock, they didn’t always make it easy for people. Despite good intentions on their part, things didn’t always work out for them for whatever reason. It clearly should not come as a surprise that they do reach the top, it wasn’t as much about the destination (though that was fun) as it was about the journey, however the latter felt a little too quick. It’s 2+ hour running time may seem daunting on paper, however, Eurovision certainly won’t feel that way as the time will fly by.

On paper, Eurovision may seem like just a collection of caricaturish Icelandic accents but in reality, it is much more than that. Though the film’s underdog story premise isn’t that new, it is still compelling to watch as it gives us two relatable characters in Lars and Sigrit that are easy to root for, competing against more seasoned talent from around the world. Meanwhile, the fact that they are from Iceland is arguably tertiary to the story and will be easy to forget. The contrast in culture (and sometimes language) did feature some great moments that were entertaining and often hilarious while also creating some interesting contrasts between the competing countries. The complex world that was Eurovision was seductive and also competitive, however, it definitely could have taken a deeper dive in that regard.

In terms of the competition, there could have been more of it in the film (maybe Netflix will release videos of the performances and/or a soundtrack?) but what we did get here was certainly not lacking in production value, from the costumes, to the choreography, to the production design. The many performances were catchy and entertaining to watch while also well shot in a manner reminiscent of the actual Eurovision contest. Beyond the competition, the cinematography was great overall in its depiction of the beautiful Icelandic countryside, from the rolling hills to those little, cute houses. It is also worth mentioning that the film does suffer from spotty CGI effects which were minimal at best.

In the end, the best part of Eurovision were the excellent performances from Ferrell and McAdams and their chemistry as Lars and Sigrit respectively. While the writing was strong, relying on heart instead of making the characters the butt of the jokes, the film would not have worked if not for them. Ferrell does display some of his buffoonish tendencies as Lars which were hilarious as always but he also balances them with a greater sense of humanity, making the character more endearing and impactful. Though she may not actually sing in the film (thank Swedish singer Molly Sandén), McAdams provides a fun counterbalance and holds her own with Ferrell. showing off some of her underrated comedic timing. Both their arcs over the course of the film were strong work on both their parts. Meanwhile. Brosnan’s Icelandic accent as Lars’ father Erick was an adventure, however, he has otherwise solid.

Overall, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga is a comedic delight that is sure to succeed with Netflix’s global audience or at least put a few more songs in viewers’ heads.

*still courtesy of Netflix*

If you liked this, please read our other reviews here and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter or Instagram or like us on Facebook. Also subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Keith Noakes

The EIC of the coincidentally-named keithlovesmovies.com. A Canadian who prefers to get out of the cold and into the warmth of a movie theatre.