‘The Sidemen Story’ Netflix Review - From Bedrooms to Big Leagues

Imagine YouTube royalty stepping off the screen and inviting you into their inner sanctum. Not the carefully curated vlogs, but the chaotic, unfiltered world where laughter erupts over spilled coffee, Minecraft blocks tumble amidst pixelated screams, and dreams of online domination simmer in bedrooms bathed in monitor glow. That's the raw, exhilarating ride that awaits in "The Sidemen Story," the Netflix documentary chronicling the decade-long odyssey of KSI, Miniminter, Zerkaa, and their fellow Sidemen.

This isn't your typical documentary. Forget the talking heads and sweeping orchestral scores. Instead, "The Sidemen Story" throws you headfirst into the mosh pit of their journey, bombarding you with a rapid-fire montage of FIFA challenges, side-splitting banter, and the electrifying energy that's propelled them to the top of the online entertainment pyramid. It's a nostalgia trip for fans, a treasure trove of throwback clips, and a window into the relentless grind that fuels their internet empire.

The film rewinds time, taking us back to the grainy, pixelated origins. We see them as teenagers, huddled around mics in bedrooms, their youthful faces filled with the naive excitement of launching into the vast unknown of YouTube.

We witness the early sparks that ignited their online fire – the Minecraft adventures, the FIFA challenges, the infectious camaraderie that resonated with millions. But "The Sidemen Story" doesn't shy away from the blood, sweat, and tears behind the pixels. It lays bare the countless hours spent editing, the relentless pressure to innovate and stay relevant, and the occasional controversies that swirled around the group.

However, the documentary transcends the world of gaming and online antics. It delves deeper, exploring the impact these internet personalities have had on mental health awareness, their philanthropic endeavors, and the evolving landscape of online entertainment itself.

We see their charity initiatives raising millions, their open conversations about mental health struggles destigmatizing the issue for a young audience, and their influence shaping the way a generation consumes content. "The Sidemen Story" becomes more than just a gaming documentary; it's a testament to their cultural impact.

For Sidemen fans, this is a cinematic love letter. Prepare to be swept down memory lane with a tidal wave of iconic moments, inside jokes, and references that will have you snorting with laughter and reminiscing about the good old days. But amidst the nostalgia, a critical eye might raise an eyebrow at the film's frenetic pace.

The rapid-fire editing, while capturing the Sidemen's infectious energy, can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving crucial moments like individual reflections unexplored. Additionally, the documentary wears its fandom proudly, sometimes skirting around potential criticisms or controversies. A touch of balanced analysis could have added depth and nuance to the narrative.

Despite these shortcomings, "The Sidemen Story" remains a heartwarming and entertaining watch. It's a celebration of friendship, perseverance, and the power of online communities. It's a must-watch for fans, offering a unique glimpse behind the curtain and a chance to relive their favorite Sidemen moments. While not without its pacing issues and lack of critical distance, the documentary ultimately succeeds in showcasing the enduring power of friendship and shared passion that lies at the heart of the Sidemen's story.

So, click play, and embark on this journey with them. Just be prepared to laugh, reminisce, and maybe even shed a tear or two along the way. After all, the Sidemen story is more than just clicks and views – it's a testament to the extraordinary things that can happen when friends with a dream band together and click record.

Final Score – [6/10]
Reviewed by - Arpita Mondal
Publisher at Midgard Times