Mistaken for Strangers

Mistaken for Strangers is a documentary packed with complexity, humor, and emotional depth, set against the backdrop of the indie rock scene. Released in 2013, the movie presents an unexpected perspective on fame, family dynamics, and the creative process, painting a dual portrait of a rising band presented in a familial context.

The film stars Tom Berninger, the younger brother of lead singer Matt Berninger from the acclaimed rock band, The National. Roping in key band members such as Bryce Dessner, Aaron Dessner, Bryan Devendorf, and Scott Devendorf, this movie takes us on a personal journey into the band's life, music, and the unique relationship between Tom and Matt.

Mistaken for Strangers showcases Tom initially coming on board as a roadie for The National's biggest tour in their decade-long musical journey. Underlying the entire endeavor is the stark contrast between the two brothers: the younger, Tom, known for being a carefree individual with a penchant for horror movies and heavy metal, and the older, Matt, the suave frontman of a successful indie rock band that seemingly personifies perfection and professionalism.

The documentary showcases the physical, logistical, and psychological toll that tours take on the band members, but also shows the equally important personal journey of Tom. He takes his camera out into the uncharted territory of the band's life on the road, capturing incredible behind-the-scenes moments and insightful interviews with the band members.

Mistaken for Strangers, however, slowly morphs from a rockumentary into a poignant family drama, transcending the realm of music, and bringing to the foreground the theme of sibling rivalry and brotherly love. It portrays Tom's struggles with living in his brother's shadow and his personal battle to create his own identity separate from Matt.

The movie’s charm primarily resides in these quirky, raw, and real dynamics between the brothers. Tom's self-deprecating humor, combined with his efforts to prove his worth, results in hilarious encounters and heartwarming breakthroughs that redefine the essence of this film. Combined with the exhilarating music of The National playing in the background and serving as an emotional anchor point for the narrative, the movie plunges viewers into a journey filled with laughter, tears, and rock 'n' roll.

Director Tom Berninger adapts a unique style of filmmaking to chronicle this saga. The handheld, frenzied camera work, interspersed with personal commentary, creates a sense of intimacy that draws viewers into the unique world of the Berninger family, causing them to invest emotionally in Tom's journey of self-discovery.

Furthermore, other band members like Bryce Dessner, along with others become part of the narrative, providing insights into the band’s rise to fame, their music-making process, and their perspective on the stark contrast between the brothers. This all encapsulated, the documentary isn’t just about the band—it's equally about family, identity, and the struggle to find one's place in the world.

On the post-production side, the documentary owes much of its charm to the editing. The film manages to weave the chaos of tour life, the humor, and the poignant sibling dynamics into an engaging narrative, resulting in a film that has garnered praise for its honesty, humor, and emotional resonance.

Whether you're a hardcore fan of The National, a casual music lover, or someone just looking for an earnest family drama, this movie is sure to strike a chord. Mistaken for Strangers is a bittersweet symphony of the trials and tribulations of being the "other" brother. With its humor, pathos, and rock 'n' roll ethos, the film is a hidden gem that stands out amidst the sea of music documentaries. It's a documentary that goes beyond the façade of fame and into the complexities of family dynamics and the human need to be acknowledged—on-stage and off it. It’s a testament to the power of familial bonds, the bittersweet symphony of music-making, and the universal quest of finding one's unique voice in a world of echoes.