Blackpink: The Movie

Review: Celebrating the 5^th anniversary of the K-pop band of the same name, 'Blackpink: The Movie' is a collection of performances from their online concert 'The Show' (2021) and world tour 'In Your Area'. Spanning 18 countries around the globe, this 26-city tour was the highest-grosser by a Korean girl group. The movie features band members Rosé, Jisoo, Lisa and Jennie as they look back at their 5-year journey. In addition, the individual personalities of the four members are captured in the form of mini-films, interspersed between stage performances.

This loosely assembled documentary gives their fans, called 'Blinks', the opportunity to experience the full extent of their well-produced performances on a big screen – nothing less, but nothing more. Those expecting deeper introspection from the girls as they revisit the band's history will be disappointed. While each member talks about their background and personal experience, the solo features are devoid of additional insights. While they recognise their individual and collective growth as performers and musicians, the band does acknowledge their 5-year stint doesn't seem like a long time.

This is a big-screen concert film of a K-pop group showcasing their range and stage presence, justifying their global popularity. Granted, their undeniable hard work and skills will be appreciated by those who closely follow the band. But the purely commercial and rehashed approach of this 'movie' may leave many wanting more.