The Tragically Hip - Long Time Running

Long Time Running, directed by Jennifer Baichwal and Nicholas de Pencier, is a poignant documentary that follows the Tragically Hip, a beloved Canadian rock band, as they navigate the bittersweet journey of their 2016 tour. This poignant cinematic tribute captures the emotional highs and lows of the band's final stretch, culminating in their sold-out tour finale at the Rogers K-Rock Centre in Kingston, Ontario, a testament to their enduring connection with their fans. The film opens with an intimate portrait of the band, showcasing their camaraderie and chemistry. As they embark on their 2016 tour, the stakes are evident: it will be their last. Frontman Gord Downie, having been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, has been the driving force behind the tour, driven by a fierce determination to deliver one final, unforgettable performance to their fans. The band members, each with their own unique dynamic, grapple with the weight of their impending farewell. As the tour progresses, the Tragically Hip plays to packed venues across the country, with their fans singing along to their iconic hits like "Ahead By A Century," "Bobcaygeon," and "Wheat Kings." The energy is palpable, with the crowd feeding off the band's performance. Meanwhile, the documentary skillfully weaves together personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes footage, and intimate interviews with the band, offering a glimpse into their history, their relationships, and their creative process. The film takes a deeply personal turn as it delves into Gord Downie's health struggles. Downie's unwavering spirit and determination to push through the adversity are a defining aspect of the documentary. Interviews with Downie's family members reveal the immense emotional toll the condition has taken on them, while also showcasing the unbreakable bond they share. His love for his family, the band, and their fans is evident, as is his dedication to his craft. Throughout the tour, the band's music becomes an integral part of the narrative. The songs are woven into the fabric of the documentary, illustrating their importance in the lives of the fans, many of whom have been following the band since the beginning. It becomes clear that the Tragically Hip's music is not only a reflection of their own experiences but also serves as a shared emotional language, allowing them to bond with their audience through lyrics that have become synonymous with Canadian identity and experience. As the tour nears its end, tensions rise, and doubts creep in. Will they be able to complete their planned shows? Will they be able to give the fans the performance they deserve? These questions hang in the balance, but the band's resolve remains steadfast. The sense of urgency surrounding their final tour becomes a propulsive force driving the story forward. Long Time Running culminates in the now-legendary finale at the Rogers K-Rock Centre, a poignant and uplifting testament to the Tragically Hip's enduring legacy and the strength of their connection with their fans. The scene is set with fans pouring in from early morning, a sea of Tragically Hip merchandise and homemade signs waving from the stands. The band takes the stage, their faces set with a determination that would carry them through this final performance. The tour finale proves a transcendent event, with the band delivering a performance that is at once emotional, energetic, and unforgettable. As they play through their iconic songs, the crowd's collective voice rises to meet them, creating a shared experience that will stay with fans for years to come. It is clear that, despite the devastating circumstances surrounding the tour, the Tragically Hip have transcended their mortality to deliver a performance that will be remembered as one of their greatest. The camera pans out as the band departs the stage, their faces a picture of emotional exhaustion but also triumph. Long Time Running ends on a moment of poignancy, with Gord Downie standing alone, a faint smile on his face, basking in the glow of the Tragically Hip's legacy. In a fitting conclusion, the documentary acknowledges the immense outpouring of love from their fans, a reminder that music has the power to transcend mortality and create connections that will last a lifetime.