Produced by Tremolo Productions in association with LeeLee Films, Forever We Are Young delves into the heart, soul, and surprising evolution of one of the most passionate and complex global fandoms in pop music history: BTS ARMY.
The documentary features ARMY from around the world, including the US, Mexico, and South Korea, showcasing the power of community and collective organization that has helped catapult BTS to global stardom.
The highly anticipated documentary made its world premiere at the SXSW Film & Television Festival at the iconic Paramount Theatre in downtown Austin Monday, March 10th. There was an enthusiastic crowd of industry professionals, film enthusiasts, and ARMY– “Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth”–members from around the world. There was a second screening at the ZACH Theatre on Tuesday, March 11th.
Co-directors Grace Lee and Patty Ahn were in attendance for post-screening Q&A on Monday, alongside documentary participants and ARMY, Nico Edward, Kaitlyn Krapsyk, Norman Hsieh, and Mhia Wade. Alongside the filmmakers in attendance at the premiere were Executive Producers James Shin and Morgan Neville (Academy-award winning filmmaker; 20 Feet from Stardom). After the screening, a BTS Dance Party took place outside the Paramount Theatre.
Quotes provided from the press announcement: “We both feel grateful to be part of documenting this historic fandom at this moment,” said directors Grace Lee and Patty Ahn. “Much has happened to get ARMY to this moment on the clock of the world, and we hope this film can provide some history and insight into how we might move into the next chapter.”
“I don’t even consider ARMY a fandom, they’re a FAMdom,” explained Nico Edward, a Texan ARMY and BTS reactor during the Q&A. “To all my fellas out there, don’t be afraid to love BTS, don’t be afraid to dive into this rabbit hole. Love it like any other song out there.
I did attend the screening at the Zach Theater and although there wasn’t a dance party, there were many enthusiastic fans in attendance. The film does achieve what the filmmakers stated – to reach those who are fully familiar with the band and fellow fans, but also for those who not as informed with the band members and the fans from around the world. It is informative and entertaining to learn about them through the footage that is included in the film, as well as hearing from those who admire them.
Source: SXSW, Tremolo Productions, filmmakers
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