Watch Buddy

Buddy is a heartwarming Norwegian comedy-drama film that follows the journey of three childhood friends through various phases of their lives. Directed by Morten Tyldum, the film captures the essence of their bond, how they navigate a rapidly changing world, and how life sometimes takes unexpected turns. The story begins in the early 1970s, where we meet Kristoffer (Nicolai Cleve Broch), Geir (Aksel Hennie), and Stig (Anders Baasmo), who are in their early teenage years. They live in the small town of Stavanger, and their love for rock music bonds them closely. They dream of forming their own band, and despite having no musical talent or instruments, they are determined to make it happen. They experiment with different instruments, and after much persuasion, Kristoffer's dad (Bjørn Floberg) gives them his old piano. The friends transform the instrument into a makeshift drum set and use it to jam.

As the years pass, the trio progresses from adolescence to adulthood, and they face different challenges. Kristoffer becomes a successful businessman, Geir is a journalist in Oslo, and Stig moves to America to study music. Despite their vastly different lives and careers, they remain close and continue to communicate and meet periodically.

The film beautifully portrays the complexity of their friendship, the moments of tension, and the profound sense of loyalty that they feel towards each other. When Kristoffer and Geir go to New York to visit Stig, they realize that he is struggling to make it big as a musician. The reality of their friend's situation prompts the friends to come up with a plan to help him, and they decide to organize a benefit concert in Norway to raise funds. However, they soon realize that such an event comes with many logistical and financial hurdles.

The film also reflects on broader societal changes that affect the trio's lives. We see the dawn of the internet age in the 1990s, which introduces a new form of social connection, but also distances people physically. Kristoffer finds himself increasingly isolated from his family and friends as his business grows, while Geir grapples with his identity as a journalist in a world that is gradually shifting towards sensationalism and controversy.

The film's soundtrack is an integral part of the story, and it features classic rock songs from the 1970s and 80s, as well as original compositions by the film's composer, Lars Lillo-Stenberg. The music sets the tone for the different phases of the story, and the concert scenes are particularly enjoyable.

Overall, Buddy is an endearing film that celebrates the power of friendship and perseverance. The chemistry between the three leads is fantastic and makes it easy to root for their success. The film's message is universal, and viewers from different parts of the world can relate to the central themes of friendship, love, and loyalty. The final scene is a testament to the film's enduring optimism and the possibility of hope even in the most challenging situations.