Once Aurora

Once Aurora is a 2018 documentary that digs deep into the life of the enchanting Norwegian pop star, Aurora Aksnes, who is better known by her stage name, Aurora. The film is a personal and intimate encounter with the artist who is at a transformative turning point in her career and personal life. Co-directed by Benjamin Langeland and Stian Servoss, the movie magnificently captures Aurora's effervescent spirit and expressive creativity while unraveling the complexities that accompany fame and artistic growth.

The premise of Once Aurora revolves around this acclaimed singer-songwriter revealing her untold side. The documentary starts by tracing Aurora's roots, from her childhood home in the idyllic Norwegian countryside to the onset of her music career sparked by her inherent love for creating art. The viewers get a glimpse of her progress from a local artist performing in small gigs to a global artist mesmerizing audiences in famous worldwide music festivals and theaters.

The filmmakers ventured to capture an authentic portrayal of the everyday life of this superstar while highlighting her unique, magical stage presence. They follow her both in the studio, showcasing the process behind the seamless music she creates, and on the demanding international tours. We get to see how Aurora handles the challenges glowing fame has cast upon her young, vibrant life.

Her struggles with mental health due to the relentless pressure of maintaining an image while staying loyal to her art, are carefully and sensitively brought to light. Under the sparkling starlight of success, the audience gets to see the raw appeal of an artist who frequently grapples with the burden of pleasing her expansive global fanbase whilst maintaining her purity of sound and silent introspection.

Langeland and Servoss have done a superb job in capturing Aurora tangled in contrasting experiences - from the ecstasy of live performances and the joy of composing mesmerizing melodies, to the exhausting tour schedules and the conservations with fans pouring their hearts out to her. In her soaring highs and her disheartening lows, we see an artist coming of age, coming to terms with the aura that encompasses her, a journey that inexorably transforms her, and in turn, her art. The title – 'Once Aurora' – subtly hints at this dynamic transformation we get to witness, as it suggests a documentation of an Aurora we once knew, set against the reality of an evolved Aurora which the movie brings forth.

A substantial aspect of the film is its careful cinematography showcasing the beautiful landscapes of Norway which play a significant role in influencing Aurora’s music. These serene visuals of her homeland create a calm and peaceful backdrop which is a subtle nod to the artist's raw and earthy approach to her music. Aurora's bond with her fans is another focal point of the movie. From casual conversations to heartfelt moments, the film provides an intriguing and rare insight into the fan-artist relationship and the impact it has on the artist's life and their art.

The pacing and tone of Once Aurora are carefully structured with a balance between the vivacious, soon overwhelming world of fame and quieter, personalized moments of reflection. The addition of her high-energy live performances interspersed with profound conversational insights provides a palpable contrast, making the narrative more intimate and engaging.

Perhaps most importantly, Once Aurora is a frank depiction of the demands of young fame and spectacle of the music industry. Aurora’s story serves as a reminder of the sacrifice artists make to inspire others with their craft. Throughout, we are treated to Aurora's radiant personality and ethereal voice as they enliven the narrative, making it an engaging watch for fans and newcomers alike.

In conclusion, Once Aurora is a stunning, insightful chronicle of a gifted artist's journey living at the intersection of exquisite talent and a demanding career. Packed with heartfelt emotions, captivating performances, and stunning countryside visuals; the movie is definitely a deep-dive into the often unsung narratives of an artist's life beyond the dazzling allure of the stage. It is as much an exploration of Aurora's relentless spirit and tireless artistry as it is a tribute to the power of music and humanity’s shared experiences. No matter what your musical preference is, this thought-provoking and inspiriting feature leaves you with a newfound appreciation for musicians and the often complex world they navigate.