Henrik Burman, director of the upcoming Netflix documentary Avicii – I’m Tim, reveals the challenges of capturing the emotional and complex story of the late DJ and producer Tim Bergling, famously known as Avicii. The film, debuting December 31, coincides with Avicii – My Last Show, revisiting his final performance at Ibiza’s iconic Ushuaïa club. Less than two years later, Bergling tragically passed away, leaving a profound legacy in electronic music.
The project began in 2019 as a planned TV documentary about Avicii’s final album, Tim. Burman faced immense challenges, including sourcing rare footage and conducting extensive research. “Everyone around Tim had experienced significant emotional struggles,” Burman explained in a Netflix Q&A shared with EDM.com. “We took a slow, careful approach, holding long conversations to honor his story with sensitivity.”
Burman’s journey delved into the humanity behind the global icon. “My goal was to find a personal connection to Tim, searching for the essence of his music and the man behind it,” he shared. This deep exploration revealed a striking interplay of light and darkness in Bergling’s life, marked by humor, warmth, and creativity, even amid his struggles.
The documentary features never-before-seen archival footage from Bergling’s childhood, candid moments captured by friends, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his career. Burman meticulously analyzed thousands of hours of material to create an intimate portrait that bridges Bergling’s public persona with his private reality. “The first thing I noticed was the warmth and humor surrounding Tim, particularly in his early years,” Burman said. “Even in the later, darker times, there was passion and light.”
Avicii – I’m Tim offers a nuanced portrayal of Bergling, addressing his vulnerabilities while celebrating his genius. It invites viewers to look beyond the music and discover the tender, human story beneath. “A viewer told me the film is both deeply personal and universally relatable, and I found that beautiful,” Burman reflected. “Life is complex, and so was Tim’s story. I hope fans gain a new perspective on Tim as both a person and an artist.”
Don’t miss this heartfelt documentary that sheds light on the life of one of electronic music’s most influential figures. Read more about the documentary’s impact here.
Watch the trailer here.