Nickelback, the Canadian rock band known for their hit singles and top-selling albums, is embracing their status as one of the most-hated rock acts of all time. In the new documentary “Hate to Love: Nickelback,” the band takes a step back from their successful career to confront their complicated legacy.
During the film’s world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, guitarist Ryan Peake acknowledged the band’s history of being hated by many. He emphasized the importance of discussing it, stating that it would be weird not to address the criticism they have received.
The band members, including Chad Kroeger, Daniel Adair, and Ryan Peake, sat down with bassist Mike Kroeger, Chad’s brother, to reflect on what it’s like to be the target of online jokes and music critics. They seem more comfortable than ever addressing the negativity surrounding their band.
For years, Nickelback seemed bothered by the criticism. However, recently they have embraced the haters, acknowledging that negativity sells. They’re determined to use it to their advantage. The documentary is directed by Leigh Brooks and was initially meant to capture behind-the-scenes moments and promotional interviews for the band’s 2017 album, “Feed the Machine.”
As Peake saw early footage from the Vancouver shoot, he realized that there were missing pieces to Nickelback’s story. This led him to suggest making a documentary about the band’s history. The cameras started rolling, capturing their lives for a few days, and later for a few months.
Peake admits that having a camera around all the time was uncomfortable, but he urged the crew to shoot everything. He emphasizes that they are not like the Kardashians, who live their lives in front of cameras. Six years later, they had a movie that tells Nickelback’s story in their own words.
The documentary includes interviews with friends and family and explores the band’s history. It touches on notable moments, such as Chad Kroeger’s marriage to Avril Lavigne and the success of their songs “How You Remind Me” and “Rockstar.” The film also reveals surprising revelations, including the discovery that Chad and Mike had different fathers.
Former drummer Ryan Vikedal is also featured in the documentary, discussing his departure from the band. Candid footage shows how the criticism has affected Chad Kroeger personally, with insight from his mother and others close to him.
By the end of the documentary, Nickelback presents a new image of themselves: less of opponents and more as individuals with a sense of humor and a small-town spirit. Peake clarifies that their intention was not about controlling the narrative but rather sharing their side of the story.
The film also suggests that Nickelback is at a turning point in their career, with uncertain future prospects. It is revealed that Mike Kroeger suffered a stroke during the recording of “Feed the Machine,” a detail the band had not publicly disclosed before.
Kroeger acknowledges that anything can happen, including the possibility of the band ending after their current tour. He feels grateful for the success they’ve had but recognizes that they are entering bonus time in their careers.
“Hate to Love: Nickelback” will continue to screen at the Toronto International Film Festival and offers a fresh perspective on the band, portraying them as more than just a controversial rock act.
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