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Oh, my God! Can you imagine if Liam Payne ended up being a firefighter instead of a vocalist? Yup, that’s what Payne himself said in the movie, sharing a light moment with another former bandmate. Documenting the lives of the five lads and their dizzying journey whilst in the then One Direction, Morgan Spurlock does a wonderful job, weaving together visually powerful concert footage along with what happens backstage, including styling scenes, choreography and pre-concert rehearsals.

At times, the repetitive nature of some bits did feel a bit plain. But I was surprised that a neuroscientist’s thoughts were also included. While this neuroscientist did mention that these “Directioners” aren’t crazy, but rather excited, many scenes later, you’ll see a (younger) Liam Payne going, “this is crazy” or something to that effect. And yes, it’s indeed electrifying to hear squealing fans.

And perhaps, I get why it’s beyond anyone’s imagination that they were once one of the biggest boybands in history. In the span of 2010-2013, the boys got to go around the globe, it’s massive.  From Tokyo, Madison Square Garden, to Berlin, Mexico City and even Amsterdam.

One can’t help but chuckle at how those guys were then being acquainted to Japanese food and culture, as someone from Asia. Didn’t know they’ve had fans in Japan.

Watching the opening concert footage was seriously difficult, even as a non-fan, knowing that Liam Payne is no longer with us today. It’s even harder when parents of the then One Direction boys appeared on the screen, particularly that brief portion where Liam’s mum makes an appearance to remark that she has not seen her son for an incredibly loooong time – given how the band would go on tour for an extended period of time.

I kind of feel for them though because they never really got to be ordinary folks.

Ah, the two sides of being famous.

The film has a runtime of 92-95 minutes.