NIRVANNA THE BAND THE SHOW THE MOVIE - Review | TIFF 2025

Matt Johnson’s latest film works marvellously as an expansive addition to the series it’s based off along with engaging those unfamiliar with it. The type of rare comedy nowadays featuring genuinely shocking and outrageous real-life scenarios to which it's puzzling to process how they were able to get away with pulling them off. Even with the film going above and beyond for breaking conventions on delivering non-stop memorable humour, Matt and Jay’s striking chemistry provides the film’s moving emotional core as they face opportunities that test their friendship/loyalty to one another. Even with the film ending a bit abruptly, the greatest Canadian comedy ever made is likely what will be used to call this gem of a movie that truly feels like a cinematic event in scale and creativity.

Still Courtesy – Neon

Ever since 2008 in the city of Toronto, Matt (portrayed by Matt Johnson) and Jay (portrayed by Jay McCaroll) are best friends who have been coming up with absurd plans to fulfill their lifelong dream, playing a show at a bar venue known as The Rivoli under their band, Nirvanna the Band. 17 years later, not much has changed for being able to book a show while their plans have only gotten more obscure. While Matt takes action with another plan and Jay hides having cold feet, they suddenly end up in the last time and place they both would have expected. From that point, each person's future will never be the same again based on what they do.

After Matt Johnson's most recent projects, including the sensational Blackberry (2023) along with the hilarious two seasons of Nirvanna the Band the Show (2016-) that this film is following up, it's hard to deny that this is a brilliant and expansive entry into the series while simultaneously offering an engaging experience for those unfamiliar with the material. The film seamlessly blends its roots with fresh elements, making it accessible to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. The unique charm of the movie lies in its ability to tackle real-life scenarios that are both shocking and humorous, creating a truly rare brand of comedy. It’s the kind of filmmaking that forces the viewer to marvel at the audacity of the situations presented, leaving one to wonder just how the filmmakers managed to pull off such outrageous moments without the audience’s disbelief breaking.

What truly elevates this film, however, is its remarkable comedic style. It is a rare breed of humor that relies on boundary-pushing real-world events, making it not only a laugh-out-loud spectacle but also a fascinating exploration of absurdity. The sheer boldness of the film’s premise and execution is something that stands out in today's cinematic landscape, where daring comedies have become few and far between. The audacious situations are not only surprising but are cleverly woven into the narrative, ensuring that they don’t feel out of place but instead contribute to the film's overall sense of chaos and hilarity.

Yet, amid all the chaos and outrageousness, the emotional depth of the film is what truly grounds it. The powerful chemistry between Matt and Jay provides a poignant contrast to the madness unfolding on-screen. Their bond, tested by the challenges and absurdities they face, adds a layer of heart that elevates the movie from being just another comedy to something much more meaningful. The loyalty and friendship they share become the emotional core of the story, reminding audiences that even in the most bizarre circumstances, genuine human connections can still shine through.

Although the film concludes somewhat abruptly, it doesn’t detract from the sense of triumph it leaves behind. This movie feels like more than just a comedy—it feels like a cultural event, something that will be remembered as one of the greatest achievements in Canadian filmmaking. Its blend of inventive storytelling, bold humor, and emotional weight makes it a standout in the genre, and it’s likely to be hailed as the greatest Canadian comedy ever made. The sheer scale and creativity of the film are undeniable, ensuring its place as a memorable one-of-a-kind cinematic experience that's a must-see to witness.

Verdict

9/10

Still Courtesy – Neon