In the ever-evolving landscape of smartphones, Matt Johnson’s offbeat comedy takes us back to the pre-iPhone era, exploring the untold story of BlackBerry’s rise and fall. Johnson’s idiosyncratic filmmaking style injects freshness into a saturated biopic market, offering a DIY approach and a nuanced portrayal of tech pioneers Mike Lazaridis and Doug Fregin.
The narrative begins with Lazaridis and Fregin pitching a seemingly radical idea of putting a computer in consumers’ pockets, a concept that defied the norms of the time. The film cleverly avoids the cliché of venerating its characters, opting instead to showcase their flaws as both features and bugs. The multi-cam set-up allows for a more dynamic storytelling style, making BlackBerry almost feel like a parody of the biopic genre at times.
Glenn Howerton shines as Jim Balsillie, the business-minded force behind BlackBerry’s transformation from a humble man cave project in Waterloo, Ontario, to a major player in North American communications. The contrast between Balsillie’s ruthlessness and the awkward charm of Lazaridis and Fregin adds depth, steering clear of the ‘difficult genius’ trope often associated with tech biopics.
The film’s humor and snappy pacing, coupled with cheeky moments like the supposed origin of the phone’s name, keep the audience engaged. Johnson’s affection for his subjects is evident, humanizing a group of geeks who, despite their preference for dark rooms and LAN parties, played a pivotal role in shaping global communication.
However, beneath the nostalgia and humor lies a poignant reflection on modern technology and its creators. The BlackBerry’s initial success was fueled by innovation and teamwork, but as the story unfolds, we witness a shift towards cheaper manufacturing and a failure to adapt. The film draws attention to the pitfalls of a tech industry driven more by financial greed than a commitment to the longevity and craftsmanship of its products.
In essence, Johnson’s BlackBerry biopic offers more than a trip down memory lane. It serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of losing sight of innovation and team dynamics in the pursuit of short-term gains. The film masterfully weaves together entertainment and reflection, making it a compelling addition to the tech biopic genre.
