Mistaken for Strangers (2013)

Mistaken for Strangers Poster

Mistaken for Strangers follows The National on its biggest tour to date. Newbie roadie Tom (lead singer Matt Berninger’s younger brother) is a heavy metal and horror movie enthusiast, and can't help but put his own spin on the experience. Inevitably, Tom’s moonlighting as an irreverent documentarian creates some drama for the band on the road. The film is a hilarious and touching look at two very different brothers, and an entertaining story of artistic aspiration.

Introduction
"Mistaken for Strangers" is a 2013 American documentary film directed by Tom Berninger. In spite of being marketed as a rock and roll documentary, it's not almost the music. This movie follows the journey of the indie rock band, The National. Nevertheless, it dives deeper, checking out the relationship between the band's lead singer, Matt Berninger, and his more youthful brother, Tom, who is the director of the film.

Synopsis
The documentary kicks off when Matt welcomes his bro Tom to join their upcoming tour as a roadie. Hoping this chance might assist Tom find some instructions in life, Matt is uninformed that he is signing up for an unfiltered portrayal of The National's tour and his own life. Tom, being a heavy metal and scary film lover, has varying visual tastes compared to his brother. These contrasting state of minds set a tone for the film, showcasing a mix of mockumentary-style video footage of the band's daily life on trip in addition to real, sincere minutes between the brothers.

Directorial Debut
Although unskilled, Tom takes an adventurous foray into the world of documentary filmmaking. The movie highlights their backstage antics but also dives into the depths of the complex brotherly relationship, using an intimate window into their low and high. In spite of being fired midway through recording due to his unprofessional conduct, Tom continues recording in secret, lastly culminating this video footage into "Mistaken for Strangers".

Reflective Journey
"Mistaken for Strangers" is more than simply another rockumentary; it is a personal and introspective film that studies the complexities of familial relationships, sibling rivalry, and acceptance. The movie chronicles Tom's struggles and insecurities as he compares himself to his seemingly more effective brother. He feels overshadowed and has a hard time to find his own creative voice. These themes are expertly navigated throughout the documentary, permitting audiences to feel sorry for Tom's journey.

Important Reception
"Mistaken For Strangers" has gotten positive evaluations, mainly owing to its unique perspective on household characteristics and its truthful representation of struggles faced by the less 'effective' sibling. Critics have actually applauded the film's smart subversion of rockumentary conventions, while audiences have responded to its emotive, and humorous narrative told through an incredibly genuine lens.

Conclusion
"Mistaken for Strangers" is a touching, and sometimes sobering, exploration of life on tour with The National. Yet, it's Tom's quest for self-discovery and his evolving relationship with his brother that really provides the film its heart. It's a tale about individual growth, approval, and the bonds of brotherhood, explored through the lens of a less accomplished sibling living in the shadow of his more successful sibling. This truthful representation of familial love and personal growth makes "Mistaken for Strangers" a gripping and emotional movie, offering more than just the music.

Top Cast

  • Matt Berninger (small)
    Matt Berninger
    Self
  • Tom Berninger
    Self
  • Aaron Dessner (small)
    Aaron Dessner
    Self
  • Bryce Dessner (small)
    Bryce Dessner
    Self
  • Bryan Devendorf
    Self
  • Scott Devendorf
    Self
  • Carin Besser
    Self
  • Brandon Reid
    Self
  • Barack Obama (small)
    Barack Obama
    Self
  • Werner Herzog (small)
    Werner Herzog
    Self (uncredited)
  • John Krasinski (small)
    John Krasinski
    Self (uncredited)