Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie

(dir. Matt Johnson)

By: Dave Hughes

Programming from Canada has occasionally found an audience here in the States. Shows such as Trailer Park Boys, Schitt’s Creek and Letterkenny all have cult-like followings and were able to cross the border to achieve viewership and acclaim. Another Canadian program that was able to get an audience was Nirvanna the Band the Show. Creators Matt Johnson (Blackberry) and Jay McCarrol (Hell of a Summer) created a mockumentary style show following two musicians desperate to book a music gig at a local venue. Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie is a direct continuation of that series of the same name while evolving elements of science fiction including time travel into the premise. Nirvanna will surprise viewers with a fun script, a compelling city that comes to life around the of the film and two leads that are sure to have audiences chuckling. 

The story begins with once again Jay and Matt trying to book a gig at the Rivoli theater in Toronto. The pair is willing to stop at nothing to get the recognition and fanbase that they feel is deserved. The film begins, captivatingly enough,  with the pair attempting to skydive off the CN Tower into a Toronto Blue Jays game to get their names on the marquee at the Rivoli. It’s a compelling first 20 minutes of the movie that sets the stage for what’s to come and how unpredictable this film is. This film is a strong homage to Back to the Future (1985) along with other mockumentary style projects where the characters frequently break the 4th wall. 

Director Johnson paints a vivid picture of the city of Toronto. From the bustling daytime crowds to the scenic nighttime views of the skyline, there is no question Toronto and its people are a central character of Nirvanna. Johnson’s guerilla filmmaking style relies on the interactions with local Toronto residents who seem just as amused and concerned by the main characters as the audience is.  Reactions of the locals to the humorous moments that are unfolding are a key part of the movie’s absurdist nature and comedy. 

At its core, Nirvanna is about two friends who want to achieve success but question what sacrifices need to be made for that dream. There comes a point in Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie where the comedic nature becomes secondary to the incredibly strong chemistry and connection between two characters who have known each other forever. It is captivating to see this bond continue to stay strong but also become tested throughout the storyline. Ultimately, the emotional glue is what makes the film so uniquely effective.  

Target Score 8/10: Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie is surprisingly one of the best science fiction movies in recent years. Through a captivating cast and absurdist comedic nature, the film sets itself apart while establishing new ground for an audience unfamiliar with Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol’s comedic resume.