REVIEW: “Girl You Know It’s True” (2024)

As a film critic who grew up in the vibrant, eclectic music scene of the 80s and 90s, I must say that “Girl You Know It’s True” is a refreshing and poignant addition to the biographical drama genre. Director Simon Verhoeven masterfully navigates the complex web of fame, deception, and redemption in this compelling story of Milli Vanilli.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, regardless of whether you were a fan or not, it’s likely that you came across Milli Vanilli. This German duo, comprised of Rob Pilatus and Fab Morvan, shot to fame as pop music sensations. They sold millions of records, had three number one hits, and even won the Grammy for Best New Artist. However, a scandal broke out when it was revealed that Rob and Fab didn’t sing their songs themselves. This revelation led to an immediate backlash, and eventually, they lost their Grammy award.

Rob and Fab tirelessly tried to rescue their careers, yet their efforts were unsuccessful. In 1998, they recorded an album as a comeback effort and had plans for a comprehensive tour. However, misfortune intervened, effectively halting any prospects of resurgence. Their tale, marked by success followed by decline, is undeniably heartrending; it has been recounted in numerous documentaries. Unfortunately, Director Bret Ratner’s Milli Vanilli biopic was terminated when accusations of sexual misconduct against him surfaced publicly.

The movie, titled “Girl You Know It’s True,” is a fresh biographical drama. This production, masterminded by Simon Verhoeven, serves as both writer, director, and co-producer. Its purpose is to rehabilitate the tarnished images of Rob Pilatus and Fabrice Morvan, the Milli Vanilli duo. However, it does not absolve them of their involvement in the intricate deception. Instead, Verhoeven aims to present a more compassionate perspective on Milli Vanilli, moving beyond their fame and focusing on their humanity. The narrative offers a thoughtful warning, skillfully portrayed through an enlightening and fashionable lens.

REVIEW: “Girl You Know It’s True” (2024)

In 1988, Rob Pilatus (Tijan Njie) and Fabrice Morvan (Elan Ben Ali), two dancers sharing a passion for music and stardom, crossed paths in the vibrant club scene of Munich, Germany. After struggling with low-paying jobs as backup dancers and models, they recognized the need for attention. Abandoning songwriting for the time being, they focused on crafting their image instead. They came up with a distinctive style – long braids, ripped jeans, and frilly jackets – which eventually caught the eye of Milli (Bella Dayne), an assistant to renowned record producer Frank Farian (Matthias Schweighöfer).

In 1976, Frank found immense success as a member of the German disco band Boney M. Currently, he’s engaged in a fresh endeavor. He has a song titled “Girl You Know It’s True” and two talented vocalists, John Davis (Samuel S. Franklin) and Brad Howell (David Mayonga). However, these singers didn’t fit the mold for MTV. So, Frank discusses with Rob and Fab, saying, “I need stars.” The green, inexperienced, and defenseless pair unknowingly agree to a contract, believing they would be singing the track. In actuality, they were employed as visually appealing, lip-syncing frontmen for a group Frank named Milli Vanilla.

Subsequently, Verhoeven outlines how the duo ascended from a well-known German band to global pop sensations. He mentions their agreement with Arista records, their shift to Los Angeles, the Club MTV fiasco in 1989, their Grammy night performance in 1990, the grueling legal fight over a prospective world tour, and the exposé that ultimately shattered their lives.

The movie consistently emphasizes the human aspect of characters Rob and Fab, demonstrating how they are lured by the appeal of fame and subsequently encounter troubles. Substance abuse, excessive drinking, and relationships with multiple women are factors in this downfall. However, they also become victims of manipulation, particularly by unscrupulous executives who exploit their successes ruthlessly. Opportunities are used as a temptation, much like a carrot on a string, by deceitful and influential figures. Despite their struggles, Rob and Fab remain hopeful that they can transform the facade into reality, believing they will eventually have an opportunity to perform.

One unconventional aspect of this film involves characters Rob and Fab (with occasional input from Frank) taking turns to narrate parts of the story, appearing occasionally to address the audience directly, offering their unique perspectives and guiding us through crucial events in their timeline. This method, though unusual, adds a deeper emotional dimension and provides unexpected insights. However, it’s the outstanding performances by actors Njie and Ali that truly bring everything together effectively.

2024-08-08 21:56

REVIEW: “Girl You Know It’s True” (2024)

Read More

Minority Mindset