“One Direction: This Is Us”

By Ava Kian

“One Direction: This Is Us” uncovers how One Direction was formed and follows the band for three years after the X-Factor. It captures a monumental time in history when five boys were grouped together to create the most sensational boy band music on earth. It shows their X-Factor audition tapes, from Louis’ rendition of “Hey There Delilah” to Liam’s iconic performance of “Cry Me to the River.” 

Viewers learn their story of friendship, beginning with Simon Cowell, who grouped them together to form a band. Following their first performance, One Direction attracted many fans. Their fame grew into international success, reflected by their tour through Japan, the United States, and Europe. 

The documentary shows the boys having new experiences on tour, but also gives an inside look into what it was like for the parents, who missed their kids. One scene shows Liam’s mom purchasing a cardboard cutout of Liam and putting it in his room in his absence. 

Later in the documentary, Liam reflects on the tour, describing it as “a big lad’s holiday… with a lot of work involved.” It ends with the boys around a bonfire, as they say that this is the best time of their lives and that they’ve formed friendships that will continue into the future.

If you want to look back on the 2010s, hear what life was like for the boys, and watch some bomb performances in the process, I recommend giving “One Direction: This Is Us” a watch.