The Linnet: A Melodic Mess of Emotion and Eurovision
In a world where the Eurovision Song Contest reigns supreme, The Linnet takes us on a melodious rollercoaster ride through the lives of two singer-songwriters, Ilse DeLange and Waylon. Now, before you roll your eyes and think, “Oh great, another musical biopic,” let me assure you, this one is sprinkled with just the right amount of drama, tension, and a dash of absurdity.
The film opens with our dynamic duo, Ilse and Waylon, basking in the glory of their artistic partnership. They’re like a Dutch version of Simon and Garfunkel, minus the awkward haircuts and with a lot more leather jackets. Their songwriting sessions are filled with heartfelt melodies and the occasional bickering over who gets to choose the coffee brand. Spoiler alert: it’s always Ilse. But their harmonious existence is about to hit a sour note.
Enter the Eurovision Song Contest, an event that’s less about talent and more about sequins and political alliances. When the news breaks that The Common Linnets—yes, that’s their band name, which sounds suspiciously like a group of birds you’d find at a local park—will be representing the Netherlands, the storm clouds gather. Suddenly, their peaceful songwriting sessions turn into a battlefield of egos and drama. It’s like watching two cats fight over a sunbeam; both want it, but neither is willing to back down.
As the pressure mounts, we see the cracks in their relationship widen. Waylon, with his brooding good looks, starts to feel overshadowed by Ilse’s rising star. He’s the kind of guy who would sulk in the corner, dramatically staring out of a window while thinking about his life choices. Meanwhile, Ilse is trying to keep it together, juggling her career aspirations and Waylon’s existential crises like a circus performer on a unicycle.
Things take a turn for the ridiculous when they decide to hold a songwriting retreat in the countryside. Picture this: two talented musicians, a picturesque landscape, and a lot of awkward silence. It’s like a bad rom-com waiting to happen. They try to reconnect through music, but instead, it’s more like a therapy session gone wrong. Spoiler: there are tears, a lot of them, and not just from the onions they’re chopping for dinner.
As the Eurovision approaches, their relationship reaches a boiling point. They have a massive fight over the song they’re supposed to perform. It’s the kind of argument that makes you want to yell, “Just pick a key and sing already!” But no, they decide to take a break, and in a moment of clarity (or insanity), they realize they need each other more than they thought. Cue the emotional soundtrack and the slow-motion hugs.
Finally, the big day arrives. They step onto the Eurovision stage, and as the lights blind them, they realize that all the drama was worth it. They perform a song that’s so captivating, it could make even the most cynical viewer shed a tear. It’s a mix of heartbreak and hope, and the audience is eating it up like it’s the best slice of pizza they’ve ever had.
In the end, The Linnet is not just about music; it’s about the messy, beautiful chaos of relationships. It’s about finding harmony in the discord, much like trying to tune a guitar while your partner is belting out a high note in the background. So, if you’re looking for a film that combines melodrama with a side of humor, look no further. Just remember, when it comes to Eurovision, it’s not always about winning; sometimes, it’s just about not embarrassing yourself in front of millions.