The Sidemen Story (2024) Poster

User Reviews

Review this title
32 Reviews
Sort by:
Filter by Rating:
6/10
A Dream Come True
bevanaaron15 February 2024
I must admit, even though I am almost 30, I have been a sidemen fan for a long time, however haven't watched many videos over the past couple years. Nevertheless I have spent countless hours watching and enjoying their personalities since a young age as they are a similar age range to me and have always been a genuine group of people that are very relatable. The documentary shows a few behind the scenes moments, but not as many as you would hope. It's really wholesome to hear of a few tough times that some of the sidemen have been through such as Ethan and Josh, but together they have conquered everything. The only reason I haven't rated this very high is because I feel I already know quite a lot about the sidemen and this documentary only slightly scrapes the surface in my opinion, but it should be a brilliant watch for plenty of people who don't know much about them.
5 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
6/10
The Life of the Sidemen
rohanumpleby-3405716 February 2024
An interesting portrayal of the Sidemen is showcased here, where all members speak up about their past experiences and overall thoughts about their content as a whole. It delved into some of these aspects, and tackled the struggles the Sidemen had, each of the 7 members. However, It doesn't give us much insight, and I feel as If it could of given us more. But, it was certainly interesting the bits that they did give us.

Ethan in particular, his journey has certainly seemed the toughest out of the whole group. And shows how he was struggling in life with all the bullying, and him finding ways to deal with it. And seeing him working hard and going to the Gym and getting much fitter for him was a brilliant journey. And showed how he cared for his body, but also the determination he had to put it right, which was fantastic. And him changing after the bullying about his weight, really is detrimental to him as a person/Influencer. And it was great to see some insight on him.

Although I am a big fan of the Sidemen, and have been for years. It's a little strange that other 'Influencers' have to tell us this. Like we don't already know how superb and popular they are. And how big they'll become in the near by future. Heck, you even see people saying stuff like "The world isn't ready to see Sidemen leave" and stuff like that. They didn't need to shorhorn it in, it felt rather unnecessary, especially the Hollywood scene.

But, I like how we do get to see some fan votes. And what they admire most about the Sidemen. If I am honest, for me it's the difference they've made in the world. And particularly their charity work, with the Football matches. Which is the most entertaining thing to watch out of their catalogue. Which is great, and very dearing. And the overall connection they have with their fans is truly great.

I like looking at the clips of their old videos before they became the Sidemen. And how they became part of a group, that was interesting. It felt pretty rushed though, as they then went to another topic. But, I did enjoy that segment. And found it rather funny. The cheap and the expensive videos takes me back, that was a fun little revisit that put a smile on my face. And the life of the expense and the Poor.

Although a lot of money was mentioned whenever a video had popped up about a video they made, and personally I didn't care for that. I'd rather listen to more of their backstory then how much money they make. Because, again we kind of already know how much money they could potentially be making. And the Dig at Tottenham, didn't need to be in this movie at all. Completely Unnecessary and don't know why they kept it in the Documentary if I am being totally honest. Which Kind of lessened the enjoyment out of the Doc for me, but let's not end on a sour Note.

All of the Boys journey and personal growth to fame has been amazing. And the realisation of how costly he could be and the significant impact it has on people is really great to see here. My personal favourite is Tobi because of his smile. Simon has great lyrics, and is a great wrapper, and can sing so fast it's incredible. And so was the behind the scene of it was also really interesting. I liked KSIs backstory more then anything. About family. W2S seems like a pretty chill guy, and seems like a good dude. And the guy who made those Minecraft videos was phenomenal and he was great at the game. Also the motivation between the boys is great to see. And really motivates you to create some content yourself, later down the line perhaps. And goodluck to you, if you ever do a video yourself.

Would I recommend this Documentary?

Yes, but don't expect too much information, but congratulations to the boys on their paths and journeys, life stories, and the story of success and even redemption, 6.5/10.
2 out of 2 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
8/10
Good Overview
brbktdyq14 February 2024
Production value was great and it gives a good insight into the sidemen. I think a rating of 8 is very fair as nothing is ever a 10. Being a fan from the beginning myself I do believe Netflix missed a lot of the lore out which has brought my rating down a little, but overall I do believe its probably a fair representation of the sidemen and how they came to fame. For someone who doesn't know the sidemen fully this would be a superb watch and gets a small insight into what they do and how they became so famous. Like I said I do believe Netflix could have added at least another 40 mins to an hour on top of what was produced by just adding small bits of lore.
4 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
6/10
Mixed feelings
teddyphipps-174-12864915 February 2024
As somewhat of an oldie with the YouTube scene, I've been watching the sidemen (specifically used to watch KSI and W2S many many years ago) for quite a long time. This documentary has some really heartfelt moments that just tap into how far they've come with what they've done and how they have progressed as people; these heartfelt moments are easily the best part of this documentary. The reason why I have mixed feelings is that unfortunately these glimpses of the boys' personalities and honest moments don't really stay around for too long. There is so much filler content of people they know just reiterating the same old lines about how well they've done as social media sensations; how they've exceeded expectations; how television and Hollywood is bad and how they are the future. All of that is true, but we don't really need to hear that to understand the sidemen as people. There is also filler with some shots of behind the scenes videos on their sets/live performances which don't really add anything to the narrative, leaving the documentary feeling more like a slideshow than a film actually portraying the humanity of the sidemen.

For me, the sentimental moments should have been explored a lot more. We get short glimpses into their lives and some of their struggles or successes, but nothing ever really lasts. Once they have said this little bite of information, it's almost like they are rotated out to the background of the documentary and a new sideman has his 2 minutes of honesty.

I would love to really know the real people that clearly millions of people love to see every week, if not every day. I want to understand them as humans, and see their progress step by step to really connect with them and understand how their friendship works. In all honesty I'm not bothered about how much money they make.

It's an entertaining watch, but i wouldn't class it as much of a documentary. It lacks structure and doesn't really commit to anything it offers.

As a plus though, I now have a huge respect for Ethan for what he has been through and how he has overcome it - easily the best part of the documentary was learning more about him.
1 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Another Insight Into The World of Celebrity You Tubers
t-d-t-m8221 February 2024
It's a long documentary about the crew of the Sidemen and focusing on their individual chanels before they became the modern You Tube force which they are now.

They provide unique content every Sunday on You Tube and their uploads gain millions and millions of viewers. They are the most succesful UK You Tube collective in existance; at the time of writing.

I have watched their content and it is fun and easy TV to goof-off with late-at-night with a bowl of popcorn and a can of cold beer.

It's got the Generation Z seal-of-approval and everywhere they go they get cohorted by crazy kids after a slice of the fame and the fortune.

However it's quite self-indulgent and it is a bit long for what could essentially have been compressed into an hour. I got a bit tired of the format and as a documentary perspective it was not as fun as logging into the channel and just dropping out.

There was some great information about mental health but they sometimes don't take things too seriously because they're too busy laughing to realise the actual message. I think they are maturing as men and are realising how important mental health is and advocating it to Generation Z and beyond is fabulous.

I was also glad that they are doing charity work and an important aspect which is funding childrens' school trips. The Government don't do enough to help the poor and it's sad that famous people have to cover it. Austerity helps only the rich.

It's nice to see these guys reach out to their communities and help others. It's a nice story and I wish them the best-of-success even though this documentary is a bit dull compared to modern produciton standards. Please get someone like Louis Theroux on for a professional angle.
1 out of 2 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
It's so good
zaktoora14 February 2024
The sidemen story is really the story of the sidemen we go on a journey all away back to 2013 to 2024 and it's great we get a glimpse of the lives of the sidemen and it shows their fans including me at event and meet and greets or truly it an amazing documentary it is only available in the uk I wish it was international for everyone to see but this documentary really explains the sidemen to people who don't watch the videos and the new fans it also show the behind the scenes of the sidemen which I think is a great thing to see in a documentary it's the thing your looking for in a documentary I really think it's great.
8 out of 18 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Not made for sidemen fans
robson-0252315 February 2024
If you're a sidemen fan expecting a deep dive on their lives that goes past what you probably already know through YouTube, it's not that. (Tbf they've said that whilst promoting it)

What it is: a well put together documentary with an overview of their story as a group, then brief overviews about each individual, their motivations, and struggles etc. Good production value, and good pacing makes it watchable. 7/10

I can't tell if anyone who doesn't watch them would particularly find this interesting, but maybe!

P.s. Found it hilarious that vik had to tell one of the Netflix cameramen to pan the camera so people knew what was happening lol.
1 out of 2 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
SIDEMEN, Thank you.
mccartneyollie14 February 2024
I have grown up watching these 7 lads and this documentary really gave me a lot of nostalgia and happiness for how far they have come.

They have given their audience countless amounts of extraordinary REAL content for the last 10+ years and their dedication for everything has inspired people like me to share content of my own.

This documentary shows all of your ups and downs and it really does feel like we are all a part of your story.

The dedication shown in this really shows how much you all care for your audience...

Thank you for everything JJ, Harry, Simon, Vikk, Ethan, Tobi, Josh and the Sidemen team.
6 out of 16 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Good Story 👍
bdqrksk14 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Good film on how the Sidemen got to this level. I have been a fan of the Sidemen for 7 years now and I can say it definitely showed the rise they have. Solid watch if you watch or even respect the Sidemen. Ethan bringing up his past and how close he was to suicide really brought true feelings of influencers to people. All of them Sidemen talking about mental health as well is a very nice touch but the Sidemen know the difference between banta and when to really talk. Even if you don't watch the Sidemen seeing this from a business side is also amazing. Showing you the inside of the Sidemen and how they are as a business behind the content side. Great watch 👍.
2 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
4/10
DONT FALL FOR THE TITLE
iamtanjim14 February 2024
"The Sidemen Story" offers a glimpse into the lives of the renowned YouTube group, The Sidemen. While it captures the group's camaraderie and rise to fame, it falls short in delivering a balanced portrayal of all members, particularly Vikkstar123. Known for his significant contributions to the gaming community and business ventures, Vikk is reduced to a simplistic character motivated mainly by financial gain. This overlooks his passion for gaming and his role in shaping online communities. Despite its moments of emotion and humor, the documentary's narrow focus on financial motivations, especially regarding Vikk, detracts from a fully realized narrative of The Sidemen's collective and individual journeys.
22 out of 60 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Story of how 7 friends captured the hearts of an entire generation
ananthukrishna-7747014 February 2024
The Sidemen's Netflix documentary is a captivating journey through the history of this iconic YouTube group. Tastefully directed, it weaves seamlessly between past and present, offering a masterpiece that provides insight into the boys' remarkable story. With seven unique perspectives, the documentary serves as a perfect introduction for new audiences, delving into the group's evolution, friendships, and the challenges they triumphed over. While the focus remains on the collective narrative, it doesn't shy away from the individual struggles, highlighting the journey of each member. However, it's essential to note that some, like Vikram, might find themselves slightly overshadowed on the sidelines. Nevertheless, the documentary brilliantly captures the essence of the Sidemen, creating a must-watch for both fans and those unfamiliar with their remarkable journey.
4 out of 11 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
3/10
Good YouTubers, Bad Movie
atharva-8336915 February 2024
It feels a bit odd to say but it really seemed like the human element to their fame was missing from the movie, especially when it comes to respect for their fellow audience. Everything is for views or impressions, and they often fail to consider the emotional value of the content they create.

Most of the topics of the movie already have content based around this on YouTube. This was their opportunity to do something a bit deeper with a bit more self-reflection, for their own audience.

Instead they ended up making a film targeting the netflix 'movie audience' instead of their own.

Their videos are better than this movie - even as a documentary of their own lives, and they would be an hour and a half better spent.
3 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Great story about a few lads in a homosexual open relationship.
sanghalap14 February 2024
Great story about a few lads in an open homosexual relationship. Baldski being the main 'batty man' describes his love story with each of the sidemen. In particular Simon his first love. I do feel at times he goes a bit too in depth about these relationships as he describes the sexual positions he has put simon in but i guess if that's what made him the person he is today then fair enough. Balski also talks about how he tried to get his more successful and better looking brother Deji to join in this open relationship but Deji is a man of morals and politely declined his proposal. All in all a good story, never knew all this was going on behind the scenes. Very informative.
2 out of 6 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
most REAL documentary i have ever watched
xolibbyroseox14 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
From start to end i was crying!

Hearing each and every side(man) talk about their feelings the way they have, talk about their insecurities or life was inspiring. Learning more about them day in day out personally makes me feel like u can relate to them a lot more. Going in on each individual sidemen made it perfect! Showing both their lows and highs i think really helps for the audience and to understand that mental health is important for everyone. Not just people who are classed as "normal" but also big content creators like the sidemen. And especially with them being male and speaking about them the way they did allows male audience to get that help too! VERY WELL DONE SIDEMEN and nicely made. Hats off to everyone behind the scenes, producers camera men and especially KON.
1 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
"Unmasking 'The Sidemen Story': A Disgraceful Misrepresentation of Gaming Legends"
ihnfitbh15 February 2024
"The Sidemen Story" is a slap in the face to fans who expected an in-depth exploration of The Sidemen's journey. It purports to offer insight into their lives but falls miserably short. Vikkstar123, a key figure in the group's success, is unjustly portrayed as nothing more than a money-grubber, disregarding his significant contributions to gaming and community building. This reductionist view overlooks the passion and dedication he brings to the table. Instead of a balanced portrayal, we're subjected to a narrow focus on financial motivations, which is not only disrespectful but also fails to capture the essence of The Sidemen's collective and individual journeys. This documentary is a disgrace to their legacy and deserves no more than a pitiful one-star rating.
3 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Not going to lie i got emotional!
jasmyn-3108315 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
As someone who has watched the sidemen for years, watching this and learning things about the sidemen i never knew was refreshing and at points i got emotional, especially with Josh & Ethan's stories. Watching old archive footage of the boys left me crying with laughter and made me love them all over again! I would of love it to be a bit longer but was more the happy with what i saw. Well done lads hats off congratulations!!

Keep the great content coming, but please be kind to yourself at the same time if you ever feel like your not loving what your doing anymore a true Sidemen fan will never hold that against you! We love you regardless!
0 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
Awful
hadriantheisen15 February 2024
This is the worst movie I have ever seen. It is worse than the Flash and Elementals combined. The production value is awful and some of the shots just feel like they were there to pan out the run time. The people featured in the documentary are so awful and annoying. They are like if you brought back Team Ten and gave everyone in the team drugs. The main character is named KSI who is really annoying but has some character traits that stick out compared to the rest of the otherwise mediocre cast. There is this one character where you can tell no one on the team likes, I think his name was Simon but it is hard to remember a single detail of this bland and boring documentary. If you have any respect for yourself and for your eyes and ears I would suggest to stay far away from this god awful, annoying, and overrated film.
12 out of 64 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Congratulations sidemen
chelseawardle-7241314 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I love this and this is a amazing I have been watching them for the whole 10 years and they should not be able to do the things they do but they can and they are is so many lanes not just YouTube they all inspire me and i am glad they spoke about mental health it is really important. I like the layout of this too and the cinemaphotoghy as well and I cannot believe how much they have changed and how inspiring they are and I am a fan from day one. I cannot believe the sidemen put so much pressure on them self, they do not need to because the true fan will not leave them no matter what. Well done this was great.
0 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
It made me cry! Must watch:)
bhargavkborah15 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Being a long time fan of the Sidemen, I had to watch this. I had to use VPN to change location to UK to watch this, but it was worth it. I am based in Malaysia and I loved every second of this. It was a perfect portrayal of all the Sidemen members. So so good. From Harry to Vik to Simon to Ethan to Tobi to Josh to JJ, their character arcs have been focused individually. I was literally in tears when they were talking about the tough times of Ethan. Of course I already knew it all and I had read their book as well. But their journey was so well depicted in this one its damn near perfect:) too good too perfect!
0 out of 2 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
3/10
Sidemen: A vanity project
christopherdominicdunn15 February 2024
"Sidemen: A Shallow Dive" on Netflix is a missed opportunity, offering little beyond surface-level entertainment. It fails to delve into influencer culture's complexities, ignores controversies, and presents the Sidemen as one-dimensional figures. With choppy pacing and technical shortcomings, it lacks authenticity and meaningful exploration. Ultimately, it's a forgettable watch that fails to leave a lasting impression.

The documentary's failure to address the controversies and criticisms surrounding the Sidemen (mainly KSI) is particularly glaring. By sidestepping these issues, the filmmakers not only miss an opportunity to provide a more balanced and nuanced portrayal of their subjects but also perpetuate a sanitized image of the influencers. Without acknowledging the challenges and controversies that come with fame and influence, the documentary feels disingenuous and out of touch with reality. This omission undermines any attempt at authenticity and leaves the audience with a shallow and superficial understanding of the Sidemen and influencer culture as a whole.

I've watched these guys before they even formed the sidemen and I'll always be grateful for what they have put out but it's hard to back a group when their most front man continues to be so out of touch and controversial.
1 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
One of the best story telling ever!
taleteller-6467216 February 2024
I have been following the Sidemen for years and this is one of the best portrayals I have ever seen. Its really got me teary eyed as we got more insights into the character growth of each of our lads. While its scary to even think what we will do with our lives if they stop, its a relief to know that they enjoy doing what they do, and that its unlikely for them to stop anytime soon. I loved every bit of this documentary with all my heart and I cried at some moments. Especially when they showed how difficult Ethan's journey has been and all that he had to go through for the years in the beginning!
0 out of 2 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
I don't like documentaries
thebloodywolf-175571 March 2024
I would of preferred if the sidemen actually did something entertaining for once honestly their content is good but anything outside of that isn't the best the sidemen should do more acting wise maybe it would get a few old fans back because they were known for being satire and actually funny back then then again if they make one joke they get cancelled (Accept Harry) but besides that I hope sidemen do get the opportunity to at least do skits something funny and original not the same old reused format of 20v1 or them doing a gameshow only middle aged parents watch and not their targeted audience (ps I didn't watch the Doc but it's probably bad)

I'm joking btw.
0 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
I'm grateful this group exists!!!
bedbrookthomas14 February 2024
This documentary is impeccable, it's amazing, eye opening and nostalgic at the same time. I've watched this group of YouTubers for 8 years now. I've grown up as they've grown up. And to see them now is amazing, the success they have achieved. This documentary really shows that success. From boys with dreams to living the dream. I am so grateful to each member of the sidemen for making me smile through tough times and continuing to make great content. Sidemen: Est. 2013. Harry, Simon, JJ, Tobi, Vik, Ethan and Josh. The YouTubers that changed the world... I highly recommend this doc to everyone.
0 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
LOVE IT
mxjtgxdc15 February 2024
Been a fan since the start. I'm so proud of all of them, overcoming life's toughest obstacles together and separately. They're all growing up and it's so nice to see the bond they still have together.

I'm 21 now, and they've helped me through the darkest of times. My kids will be watching them, and they will always be legends. Again I'm so so proud of all of them. This documentary is one of the best I have seen. And a massive massive appreciation for the crew as well!

Cried most of the time at the memories,but they was tears of joy. Thank you for everything sidemen and crew

We love you sidemen.
0 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Just proud to see your childhood heroes our brothers to see them at this level
amaanhussain-9401214 February 2024
I love how boys treat each other just amazing to see them reaching this levels we feel so proud to see them on Netflix documentary some random kids in their bed rooms can do this so you can do this they inspire a lot of people up coming generations how to be big how to be good friends how does people matter over money how does friendship matter over any thing how to use your fame just be real and just grind everyday so even a random group from uk change the world how can a true friendship lead you to the goal of your lifes and make your family proud help people how need helo and inspire others and there parents thanks for everything 💗
0 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
An error has occured. Please try again.

See also

Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews


Recently Viewed