On September 3rd, Billie Eilish made her Disney + debut with her new film Happier than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles. This concert experience features a performance of every song in her new album “Happier Than Ever” from front to back with interludes consisting of animated scenes of Billie driving around Los Angeles. Fans everywhere have been excited and anxious for the release of this movie, and it did not disappoint.
Shot on the stage of the iconic Hollywood Bowl, Billie Eilish compliments her music with a beautiful view of Los Angeles and high-tech stage lighting. She’s accompanied by the Los Angeles Philharmonic orchestra, FINNEAS, and the Los Angeles Childrens chorus. Her music is amplified by the instruments and live vocals, which overall enhance this music experience.
Eilish gives us a little peek into her childhood and talks a little bit about the importance of Los Angeles and why she keeps it so close to her heart. As it shows an animation of her driving around her hometown, she explains how she grew up there and as she has gotten older, she’s begun to appreciate it even more. She also shares with the audience that she grew up singing in the Los Angeles Children’s choir, which joined her in performing GOLDWING.
After its release, the film was received with lots of positive feedback from fans who were ecstatic about the result and some of whom favored these versions of her songs. From her drowsy, melancholy voice to the various ambiances created for every song performance, it was made that much more enjoyable to watch. Furthermore, the close attention to detail along with the significance behind every element that was incorporated is admirable. Critics also appreciated how they cut out all the extra fluff and were careful not to waver one’s attention in order to keep the focus on the music. However, due to this, it may only impress Eilish fans as there is nothing else to offer besides an amplified rendition of her new album.
All things considered, the rating for this film is an 8 out of 10 as Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles was an entertaining watch and is perfect for those who are fond of Billie and her music. This concert experience highlights the dreamy vocals and high energy that so many love seeing from her during performances. With many triumphs and few shortcomings this cinematic piece is an enjoyable one as Billie Eilish ends it with a metaphorical mic drop.
Isabel Ballard // Staff Writer
