When Justin Bieber’s name or music is brought up, people have either two thoughts- they love him or hate him. Being a guy, it may not be the coolest or most macho thing to admit “One Time” or “Never Say Never” are both actually on my iPod and sound pretty catchy. However, after watching the documentary film “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never,” in theatres now, it’s clear to me that this young guy has talent, passion and a work-ethic that should be applauded. It’s official, guys can be Beliebers.

Bieber at the LA Premiere of his film (Image.net)

From the beginning of the movie, we see a young boy who appears to have a talent you can only be born with. Bieber can play the guitar, kill the drum sets and sing his heart out at such a young age. The home footage that conveys Bieber’s musical abilities is authentic and genuine. An important element is also in the fact that as a child, Bieber was raised by only his mother who had him while she was still a teenager. Bieber’s dad later shows up in a powerful scene and begins to cry as it finally hits him while watching a show: his son is a star. 

The rise from an undiscovered Canadian school boy to a music superstar who has random fans sob whenever they lay eyes on him takes a lot of work.  The movie allows viewers to understand the power of social networks, in particular YouTube and Twitter (he does have 7.1 million followers and he follows thousands of them). In addition, the movie follows Bieber and his team as they try their hardest to meet with every top 40 radio station in hopes of getting more radio airplay. Finally, before the big arenas, Bieber is shown performing at water parks, malls and even outside on the street near his hometown in hopes of getting more recognized.

Bieber’s hard work has paid off. His show at Madison Square Garden, filmed for the movie, sold out in 22 minutes. The amount of tears and pleas for marriage from female fans is quite impressive. Superstars such as Ludacris, Usher, Miley Cyrus and Boyz II Men all participated in the movie by collaborating with the star during performances. Finally, evident from the movie’s audience, Bieber appeals to a large demographic. There were parents, kids from elementary school to college and even guys who weren’t all with their younger sisters. There were screams from girls during the movie when Bieber came up close in 3D and fans were singing from beginning to end.

Whether you like Bieber’s music or not, his movie goes beyond the famous hair and cheesy lyrics, and explores an ordinary boy whose dream came true. There aren’t that many singers today that can actually sing and make millions of fans absolutely crazy. After this film, I’m more than certain this kid will be around for years to come. See this film and you might get a serious case of Bieber Fever.

Reach Columnist Mike Vulpo here.