BTS Documentary 'The Return' Reveals Members' Anxieties but Lacks Musical Depth

The globally acclaimed group BTS has released their latest album 'Arirang', but it seems to lack the passionate energy and musical introspection seen in their past works. Unlike previous projects where Suga played a pivotal role in songwriting, composing, and arranging, this album shows a different side of the group.

On October 20, Netflix hosted a screening event for the documentary film 'BTS: The Return' at Cinecube Gwanghwamun in Seoul. The event was attended by the film's director Bao Nguyen, producer Jane Cha Cutler, and Kim Hyun-jung, VP of Big Hit Music.

While the film captures the members' anxieties, it falls short in showcasing their musical struggles.

Throughout the documentary, BTS members express their concerns about the group's concept and direction, revealing their uncertainties about their future activities. However, the film lacks content on their 'musical' struggles. Apart from RM writing a few lines of lyrics, there is no depiction of how members like Suga creatively contribute to the music.

The limited contribution to songwriting and arrangement by the members, aside from lyrics, might be due to the production team's intention not to interfere with the creative process. Director Bao Nguyen stated, "It was important to capture their vulnerabilities in front of the camera while ensuring we didn't disrupt their work."

Why did the director hand a camcorder to the members?

The film features scenes shot with a camcorder, capturing the members in their natural state, which draws attention. Director Bao Nguyen explained, "I wanted to capture the members' familial side, so I handed them an old camcorder. We aimed for a home video feel to obtain genuine, unembellished moments."

The documentary 'BTS: The Return' will be available on Netflix on October 27. It includes footage from their world tour, military service, and a songwriting session in Los Angeles for new tracks.

Meanwhile, BTS released their fifth studio album 'ARIRANG' on October 20, marking their first full-group activity in nearly four years.