Watch Cool & Crazy

Cool & Crazy is a Norwegian documentary film that explores the unique and vibrant culture of male choir singing in rural Norway. The film focuses on the choir in the small town of Berlevåg, located in the far north of Norway, and follows the group as they prepare for their annual performance at the Norwegian Male Choir Championships.

The film is directed by Knut Erik Jensen and features interviews with the choir members as well as footage of them rehearsing and performing. We meet a diverse cast of characters, ranging from the choir's conductor, a strict but fair man who demands the best from his singers, to the men who make up the choir, who are all passionate about their shared love of music.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of the choir members' personal lives and the role that singing plays in their identities. Many of the men come from humble backgrounds and have tough, physically demanding jobs in the local fishing industry. Singing in the choir is a way for them to come together and forget about the stresses of their daily lives, as well as a way to connect with their community and preserve a cultural tradition that has been passed down through generations.

The film also touches on the themes of aging and mortality, as many of the choir members are elderly and are aware that their time to perform is limited. There is a poignant scene where one of the members tearfully reflects on the fact that this may be his last performance with the choir, and how much the group has meant to him over the years.

In addition to the serious themes, there are many moments of humor and camaraderie throughout the film. We see the choir members bonding over fishing trips, teasing each other during rehearsals, and celebrating their successes with beer and singing. The film does an excellent job of conveying the joy and sense of community that comes with being part of a male choir.

One of the most striking aspects of Cool & Crazy is the music itself. Even for viewers who are not typically interested in choral music, the performances in this film are truly breathtaking. The men's voices blend together in perfect harmony, and the film captures the power and emotion of their singing in a way that is both intimate and epic.

Overall, Cool & Crazy is a thoughtful, engaging, and often moving documentary that offers a unique glimpse into a little-known aspect of Norwegian culture. Through its focus on the Berlevåg male choir, the film explores themes of tradition, community, and the power of music to bring people together. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply interested in learning more about different cultures, this film is definitely worth watching.