TORONTO — Lisa, the renowned K-pop star from the group Blackpink, has recently premiered her new documentary, ‘Always Lalisa,’ at the Toronto International Film Festival. This film marks a significant chapter in her career, illustrating her transition from a global pop sensation to a burgeoning actress. The documentary is set to hit theaters on October 12 before moving to streaming on YouTube Premium.
The film, directed by Sue Kim, provides an intimate look at Lisa's life as she embarks on a pivotal year. This year includes the launch of her solo album, 'Alter Ego,' which is set for release in 2025. In addition, it chronicals her forays into acting, with appearances at the Oscars and her recent role in HBO’s 'The White Lotus.' The film paints a portrait of Lisa's journey as she navigates newfound independence after years of tightly controlled management under YG Entertainment.
Lisa, whose real name is Lalisa Manobal, reflects on her experiences during the film. Now 29, she expresses pride in her growth through personal challenges. After almost a decade with Blackpink, she has sought to carve out her own identity, both musically and personally, saying, 'Finding my voice, yes, and finding confidence,' in her journey from a group member to a solo artist.
The documentary also showcases the emotional hurdles Lisa faced as she shifted to a solo career. She struggles with self-confidence while trying to define her artistic identity. ‘Always Lalisa’ reveals the pressures of wanting to live up to the expectations as a pop star while simultaneously yearning for authenticity in her expression as an artist.
Kim’s background as a documentarian provides a unique lens as she captures Lisa's story. Having previously explored the rigors of K-pop idol training with projects like Apple TV's ‘K-pop Idols,’ Kim brings a measured perspective to the pressures that accompany such fame. She aims to depict the challenges of Lisa's 'delayed coming of age,' as Lisa tests her boundaries and determines her career path.
Throughout the years leading up to her debut as a solo artist, Lisa has anonymously battled restrictions typical for K-pop stars, including limitations on dating and personal freedoms. This new documentary sheds light on her ‘growing pains’ and the learning curves she faced as she began expressing herself without the barriers imposed by her past management.
The film also touches on Lisa's celebrity experiences, including mixed reviews to her album, where she experimented with various artistic identities. Despite criticism, her live performances have been largely celebrated, with notable appearances at Coachella and MTV VMAs, cementing her success as a solo act.
In addition to her music career, Lisa has embraced acting, featuring in 'The White Lotus' where her character Mook has key interactions that enhance the narrative. Lisa expresses her excitement for this acting role, thanking the show’s creator Mike White for seeing potential in her.
Looking forward, Lisa is set to star in a Netflix romantic comedy inspired by 'Notting Hill' and an action thriller named 'Tygo,' broadening her artistic horizons. She remains open to various genres, expressing her love for storytelling while maintaining a sense of playfulness in her craft. ‘I’m super open to everything,’ she declares, reflecting her eagerness to explore new roles.
As Lisa continues her journey, she embodies the exuberance of youth while navigating the complexities of fame, making her story universally relatable. 'Always Lalisa' not only captures her growth but also resonates with anyone pursuing their dreams amidst challenges.