Junior Eurovision is the best contest ever

In his debut feature documentary, Jaime J Johnson (yes that’s his real name, and yes he’s as much a character as the name implies) takes on the 2007 Junior Eurovision Song Contest as his topic of choice. Now, to us North Americans, the term Eurovision may not mean much – but for most Europeans the Europe-wide annual pop song competition is a major event. And the recently added ‘Junior’ contest attracts almost as many viewers.  In  his 100% entertaining documentary, Jaime introduces us to several nations’ competitors as they embark on the competition of a lifetime, in Rotterdam Germany.  From an overly developed and towering Belgian teen rocker, to an adorable underdog from war-torn Georgia, the characters we meet are down-to-earth uber-enthusiastic pop star hopefuls who tug on our heart strings while also making us laugh.  

The film also bears a level of depth not expected from the topic, when, using old war footage, the competitors’ amiable battle for the coveted title is depicted in contrast to the continent’s violent past. 

Striking a delicate balance between funny and heartfelt, this fresh doc is never cheesy but never offensive. Maintaining consistent respect for his subjects, Jaime offers up wit and insight in a truly amusing Popumentary.  NN