A Beautiful Life

3.5 out of 5 stars

The journey of the unlikely music prodigy is not an original storyline, but usually, what differentiates one from the other comes down to the musician at the centre of the story. This aspect lifts director Mehdi Avaz’s film above many within the genre as it introduces the world to the Danish artist Christopher. Granted, the Netflix film may stretch some viewers as the dialogue is in Danish. Still, the chemistry of the lead characters and the songs will keep you engaged through to the end.

Elliot (Christopher) is a young fisherman who does all he can to make ends meet and save money to restore his family’s boat. At night he dabbles at songwriting on his guitar and rarely shares his talents outside the hold of his home tied to the dock. His friend Oliver (Sebastian Jessen) asks Elliot to accompany him at a local gig for the high-profile music manager, Suzanne's (Christine Albeck Børge) birthday celebration. When the vocalist gets stage fright at the last minute, his friend begins to sing behind his guitar, and those within the music community take notice. After the performance, Elliot gets into a fight behind the venue and ends up in jail. This is where Suzanne finds the fisherman, bails him out, and offers him an opportunity to work with a music producer who happens to be her daughter, Lily (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas).

In the world of streaming services, finding something of quality amongst the plethora of options is challenging. Similar to the movie's storyline, there are those moments when an unlikely choice rises to the surface and deserves some attention. A Beautiful Life may not break new ground in filmmaking and has the feel of a stock standard romantic drama. Yet, Christopher's music gives this production something special that should make people notice. His performances showcase an artist who deserves recognition for his talent and how his songs wonderfully carry this film.

For many audiences outside of Denmark, the subtitles may cause them to reconsider this story. Still, all you need to do is be patient until the first song and this will hook you into this charming fish-out-of-water tale. The added backstory of Lily and Suzanne’s journey of grief does provide a layer of tension that provides a richness to the characters. Along with the love story that provides the heart and emotional inspiration for most of the soundtrack, they will reward all who choose to venture into this musical world of A Beautiful Life.

Reel Dialogue: Change

Elliot’s journey involves quick and drastic changes to his lifestyle. These lifestyle shifts add tension and stress to his way of living and relationships that cause him to consider walking away from his dreams. This opens the door to how we all naturally resist change regardless of how it may lead to positive outcomes.

For those who have lived more years on this earth, it is easy to say that change is inevitable. Each person will face different obstacles and opportunities that will force us to mature physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The Bible speaks to these changes and gives anyone willing to read it a guide to knowing how to respond. Reminding us all that God is part of the plan and that He is the one behind it all. A passage in Second Corinthians says, “Inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” These words are encouraging for those who believe in the God who inspired them.

Change can be good, but it can be hard to endure most of the time. Yet, if we resist it, we may reject an opportunity to grow into something new. So, as you face changes today, look to see if they may be a means of improving your world, and remember that God is there for you if you choose to follow Him and know that He does not change.

If you would like to discuss the Bible further. Reach out to us at Third Space. We would love to chat with you about this and more.