‘The Boy from Medellin’ Review: This bilingual documentary explores and provides a glimpse of the real man behind the artist with all the personal and political entanglements. This documentary touches upon the personal and political aspects of its Latin American star.
It also includes the widespread protests against the government and reveals a personal and never-seen side of J Balvin. Besides his music persona the clothes, cars, and women tell about a humble, honest and vulnerable individual. He also tells about his ongoing struggle with depression and anxiety.
- Directed by Matthew Heineman
- Starring is J Balvin
It was met with heavy criticism by a large group as it had political aspects in the subject of protests against Colombia’s government and, the singer facing a dilemma either to ignore the chatter or use his fame for the betterment of his people.
Some call him the lukewarm boy of Medellin. Another user states that he is using his own people to make money and his songs, but doesn’t have the courage when it comes to acting. Even efforts of engagement are met with a wild response and a vast criticism.
‘The Boy from Medellin’ Details
His mental health is collapsing and is advised by his close friends to stay away from the politics and the drama. He says that he doesn’t care what opinions are formed about him and people will be upset with him. He also added by said that people who put him down don’t know what hardships he has to face on daily basis.
His choice of whether to make a political statement or to not indulge in this matter is engaging, but based on his life more could be shown if it has been based on his childhood. There is a time in the documentary about his parent’s struggle with their financial situation and his struggle to provide them. Balvin is open about the panic attacks and depression, and how does he cope with the problem. The early symptoms and whether they were brought on by trauma that caused him over years. He is a classic over-thinker who comes in his way when he wants to do something.
We are given a glimpse into the man Jose and little about J Balvin. The footage also provides the mantra Jose lives by. Heineman mix the performances with home video and some unheard BTS conversation
