“Louis Tomlinson: All of Those Voices”
Theatrical Introduction: “Louis Tomlinson: All of Those Voices” had a brief stint in theaters in Ireland and the UK during the past summer. Now, it’s available for streaming exclusively on Paramount+. For many worldwide fans of the English singer-songwriter and former One Direction member, this is their first opportunity to watch this documentary. The film includes interviews with Tomlinson and features footage captured during his tours between 2020 and 2022, spanning the period before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, Louis Tomlinson is on a tour in Europe, supporting his second solo album, which was released in November of the previous year.
The Journey of Louis Tomlinson: “In 2010, an 18-year-old Louis Tomlinson appeared for his X Factor UK audition, standing out with his distinct haircut. By 2011, he was a part of One Direction, the British boy band that had taken the world by storm. Reflecting on those early days in ‘All of Those Voices,’ Tomlinson fondly recalls the camaraderie and exhilaration they experienced as a band. However, as 2015 rolled around and the decision to take a break from One Direction was made, closure remained elusive until the very end of their journey. Tomlinson found himself contemplating a solo career, a relatively new frontier. He had two foundations to rely on: his significant contributions as a songwriter to his former band, and the unwavering love of his mother Johannah, his grandparents, and his sisters. Tragically, he had to navigate personal grief as his mother and sister Félicité passed away.
The documentary provides an intimate look at Tomlinson’s personal and professional evolution. He shares insights into his rapid rise to global fame and the creative process behind his initial solo hits, such as the pop-infused ‘Kill My Mind‘ and the more Oasis-inspired ‘Walls.’ A unique and somewhat quirky aspect of the documentary is Tomlinson’s constant smoking, oddly endearing at a time when smoking on camera usually involves something other than tobacco. His sisters, grandparents, and friends also offer their perspectives, all of which underline Tomlinson’s unwavering passion for singing and performing. An interesting addition is the VHS footage showcasing Tomlinson’s lead role as Danny Zuko in a high school production of ‘Grease.’ By early 2020, his first solo tour was poised to kick off, with all the machinery of the music industry ready to promote it. However, the arrival of COVID-19 abruptly halted these plans.
The documentary seamlessly transitions into scenes that are familiar in recent music documentaries. It captures Tomlinson’s creative process during lockdown as he pens songs for his second solo album. The quieter moments back in Doncaster with his grandparents, as well as his time spent in Los Angeles with his young son Freddie, are also revealed. The documentary illustrates the growth he achieved with his album ‘Faith in the Future,’ a growth that would have occurred even without the pandemic. Tomlinson reflects, ‘I can hear and see and feel myself in this record much more than I can on my first.’ The material often channels the rock sound and rousing melodies reminiscent of artists like Robbie Williams and James. As the documentary approaches its conclusion, it follows Tomlinson and his band as they perform in increasingly larger arenas around the world, warmly greeting fans with genuine gratitude. They bask in the exhilaration of being on stage and on top of the world. It’s a thrilling journey, and Louis Tomlinson is grateful for every moment.
Similar Films and Notable Mentions: For those interested in revisiting the early days of One Direction’s meteoric rise, the 2013 documentary/concert film ‘One Direction: This Is Us’ is worth considering, as it showcases the band’s fresh-faced phenomenon. Additionally, Louis Tomlinson’s former bandmate, Niall Horan, released the light-hearted documentary ‘Homecoming: The Road to Mullingar’ in 2022. In this film, Horan and Louis Capaldi engage in conversations as they explore Horan’s Irish homeland. Notably, Capaldi himself provided a charismatic and engaging presence in his own documentary, which became available on Netflix earlier this year.
Standout Performances: The offstage moments in ‘All of Those Voices’ featuring Tomlinson’s friends and band members, a lively group of British lads around the same age, exude a spirited, ‘here for the party’ vibe. As the European tour commences, viewers witness Tomlinson and his mates grappling with hangovers while also double-fisting pints of lager as they relax in a geothermal pool in Reykjavik, Iceland.
Unforgettable Dialogue: Throughout the film, Tomlinson frequently emphasizes the profound connection he shares with his fans and live audiences. He acknowledges, ‘The energy is undeniable in the room, you know. If they were hating it, I’d certainly feel it. If they weren’t enjoying it that much, I’d certainly feel it. And there’s just this level of passion – and, you know, even when I go wrong, and I look into the eyes of one of the girls in the front row, and she’s trying to show me that she doesn’t really notice my mistake. But you just feel that support, whatever it is.’
Content: ‘All of Those Voices’ doesn’t delve deep into analyzing Tomlinson’s music, comparing it to that of his peers, or examining his collaborations. Instead, it offers a comprehensive look at his life and career post-One Direction. The documentary takes viewers on a journey from his early days through the uncertainties of launching his solo career, the disruptions caused by COVID-19, and his eventual return to live performances.
Final Verdict: If you’re already a dedicated Louis Tomlinson fan, this documentary is a must-STREAM. It provides an intimate behind-the-scenes perspective as Tomlinson embarks on his solo journey, enjoys precious moments with his son, and reflects on the responsibilities that come with being in the spotlight. However, for those less familiar with his work, the documentary may not resonate as deeply, as it follows a typical artist’s narrative.