Name: Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga
Genre: Music, Comedy
Released: 2020-06-26T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Rachel McAdams, Will Ferrell, Pierce Brosnan, Dan Stevens, Jamie Demetriou

The opening number of “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga” sets the tone with a burst of glitter and chaos as Will Ferrell’s Lars Erickssong and Rachel McAdams’ Sigrit Ericksdottir belt out their quirky anthem on stage, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors and an audience that seems to exist in another dimension. Directed by David Dobkin, this musical comedy aims to capture the spirit of the iconic Eurovision Song Contest, blending heartfelt moments with over-the-top humor. The film follows the Icelandic duo as they navigate the highs and lows of the global music competition, testing their bond and artistic ambitions.

At its core, “Fire Saga” is a love letter to Eurovision’s campy charm and the underdog narratives that define it. Ferrell, who co-wrote the screenplay with Harper Steele, clearly has a deep affection for the contest, having attended multiple editions to craft the story. The film’s original music stands out as a highlight, particularly the poignant “Husavik (My Hometown),” which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Molly Sandén’s powerful singing voice for Sigrit shines in this track, adding emotional depth to the film’s otherwise frantic pace.

The performances are a mixed bag. Ferrell brings his signature manic energy to Lars, embodying the character’s unrelenting optimism and childlike enthusiasm. His physical comedy is on full display, from awkward dance moves to exaggerated reactions that elicit laughs. McAdams holds her own as Sigrit, balancing vulnerability and strength with nuance. Her portrayal of a driven artist struggling with self-doubt and unrequited love adds layers to the character that transcend the film’s comedic elements.

However, some supporting roles feel underdeveloped. Dan Stevens as Alexander Lemtov, the Russian contestant, is reduced to a one-dimensional antagonist whose primary purpose seems to be causing drama for Lars and Sigrit. Jamie Demetriou’s Kevin Swain and Melissanthi Mahut’s Mita Xenakis have potential for comedic gold but are sidelined despite their occasional moments of wit. Pierce Brosnan, in a small role as Erick Erickssong, Lars’ father, delivers a performance that is both amusing and touching, though his screen time is limited.

The film’s structure is its downfall. Clocking in at nearly two hours, “Fire Saga” struggles to maintain momentum. The first act drags with excessive exposition in Iceland, introducing the characters and their backstories with a heavy hand. Scenes of Lars and Sigrit performing at local bars or dealing with parental disapproval feel drawn out, slowing down the narrative without adding substantial depth. The middle section in Edinburgh, where Eurovision is held, feels rushed, cramming in subplots and song performances without allowing any to breathe.

The screenplay’s attempts at humor often rely on broad stereotypes and repetitive gags. Lars’ obsession with elaborate staging and Sigrit’s belief in elves are recurring jokes that lose their charm over time. The film’s pacing issues are further exacerbated by a lack of cohesive editing, which makes transitions between scenes feel jarring rather than fluid. For instance, the shift from the explosive boat party scene to Lars and Sigrit’s arrival in Edinburgh is abrupt, lacking the emotional weight it deserves.

Visually, Dobkin leans into the spectacle of Eurovision with vibrant costumes and set designs. The cinematography, however, lacks distinctive flair. The film’s reliance on bright colors and flashy visuals sometimes feels like a desperate attempt to compensate for its narrative shortcomings. The sound design is impressive, amplifying the musical numbers to create an immersive experience. Tracks like “Double Trouble – Tiësto’s Euro 90s” add energy and excitement, making the audience feel as though they are part of the Eurovision crowd.

The film’s themes of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery are timeless, but their execution in “Fire Saga” is uneven. The emotional beats between Lars and Sigrit are genuine, particularly when they support each other through failures and setbacks. However, these moments are often overshadowed by the film’s frantic pacing and overstuffed plot.

“Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga” tries to be many things at once—a heartfelt tribute, a raucous comedy, and a star-making vehicle—but it ultimately falls short due to its uneven storytelling.