A new Netflix documentary, Avicii - I'm Tim, delves into the life and struggles of Tim Bergling, the Swedish DJ known as Avicii, who tragically took his own life in 2018 at the age of 28. Directed by Henrik Burman, the documentary uses haunting footage and personal narration to trace Avicii’s journey from his idyllic childhood in Stockholm to global fame.
Avicii rose to stardom with hits like Levels and Wake Me Up, but as his career soared, so did the pressures. "With Levels, everything just took off," Avicii said, reflecting on his rise. However, the demands of touring and the persona he had to adopt as a performer took a toll on his mental health.
Struggling with anxiety, he turned to alcohol to "loosen up" before performances, leading to health complications like pancreatitis. "I didn't like being a persona," he admitted, describing his discomfort with the duality of being Tim and Avicii.
Friends and colleagues recount his increasing reliance on painkillers and his battle with the pressures of fame. Despite stepping away from touring and finding solace in activities like meditation, Avicii expressed feeling "empty and unhappy."
The documentary captures poignant moments, including narration from Avicii and reflections from his family and collaborators. His posthumous track SOS, featuring lyrics like "Can you hear me, SOS?", is interpreted as a heartbreaking call for help.
Avicii - I'm Tim is now streaming on Netflix.
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