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"Don't let anyone tell us that when we're no longer kids, we grow up. When we grow up, we won't quit being kids. Where are the real we? Should the real we be here. We've only got a little more time to be the real us. 2004, Shiba High Holly Festival." This opens the film and it is a shot of a young woman looking into the camera as she is making a documentary for the high schools music festival. After enthusiastically yelling cut the director seems unsure what do to next before finally having her repeat the last line in a closeup. After a loud "cut!" Linda Linda Linda title card appears with the entrance of lively music as the image fades into a wonderful opening tracking shot that introduces the characters of the film, starting with Bae Doo-Na's parallel tracking shot through the school hallway. Linda Linda Linda is a joy of a film. One that is irresistibly sweet and silly and inspiring. Simple and full of energy, the film is driven by it's moments between the narrative. The setting is a high school and the story centers around an all-girl rock band that wants to perform at the schools local rock festival. When the lead singer leaves the band, they get a shy Korean exchange student as a replacement. Predictable or simple as the story is, it is an absolute gem.You know where it's going, but the pleasure is the moments within. You connect with these characters and the awkward gestures and conversations they share. The performances are wonderful, but it is Bae Doo-Na that is the standout. One of the very best actresses of her generation, Bae always commands attention on screen the way she boldly captures the essence of her characters. Here she is so warmly loveable as the Korean exchange student. The other character of the film is the music. Linda Linda Linda finds the core of music as a function of spirit and soul and of togetherness. Here it defines the punk- rock inspirations and speaks of individuality. When the ending arrives, it connects on a universal level. It takes over the human soul and encourages you to jump up and sing along: "Linda Linda … Linda Linda Lindadddaaaaa!!!" It's irresistible and you will be unable to get it out of your head long afterwards. Linda Linda Linda is funny and quirky. It is a film that you watch and admire for it's humanity and energy.
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