Rock enthusiasts and critics have had their share of opinions about Nickelback, often dubbed one of the most polarizing bands in the world. However, the Canadian rock band needs to take it. Their newest documentary, “Love to Hate: Nickelback,” which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), answers all the years of criticism and internet memes.
The film boasts an intimate look into the lives of band members Chad Kroeger, Michael Kroeger, Ryan Peake, and Daniel Adair, offering an unprecedented journey through what they describe as their “rollercoaster career.” The narrative is anchored by their own experiences, with Ryan Peake mentioning, “We thought this was a chance for us to hold the narrative. We’ve been silent about it for quite a while.” One can’t help but recall the barrage of articles, Reddit discussions, and video essays delving into the widespread public disdain for Nickelback. The overwhelming sentiment among these discussions? Their songs sounded too similar and were overplayed on the radio during the early 2000s.
Chad Kroeger, while now sans his emblematic long hair, brought back a bit of old-school Nickelback flair with his blonde frosted tips at the premiere. Director Leigh Brooks shared that the film was only sometimes a documentary in the making; it initially began as a mere promotional tool for an album. However, the narrative evolved as they needed to address the overwhelming public sentiment and its impact on their families. Brooks poignantly noted, “(The abuse) doesn’t just affect that one person, it affects everyone around them. It was important to show that.”
Producer Ben Jones described the band’s initial apprehensiveness during the filming, a reaction to the constant vilification they faced over the years. Still, the group resolved to face the criticism head-on. “We address everything,” stated Chad Kroeger. “We’re pulling back the curtain, giving everybody a look.”
As the credits roll on this revealing documentary, audiences are left with a nuanced view of Nickelback, who, despite the widespread hatred, continue to make music and share their journey with the world. Their commitment to reclaiming their narrative is a testament to their resilience in the ever-evolving world of rock music.
