What happens when overnight fame collides with personal struggle? In “Noah Kahan: Out of Body,” viewers are invited behind the music to see not just the rise of a star, but the reality of the person beneath it.
Released on April 13, 2026, “Noah Kahan: Out of Body” is a 90-minute documentary directed by Morgan Neville and written by Liz Garbus. The film stars Noah Kahan, capturing his rapid rise following the success of his viral 2022 hit song “Stick Season.” The film chronicles his mental health struggles, appealing to both fans of Kahan’s music and young adults interested in the realities of fame and identity.
The documentary follows Kahan’s journey from a small-town Vermont artist to a globally recognized name. It highlights major milestones in his career, including sold-out performances at Fenway Park, while also diving into his journey navigating mental health, body dysmorphia and the pressures of sudden fame. Rather than focusing solely on his success, the film balances his achievements with the emotional challenges that come with them, offering a more complete picture of his life without being predictable.
One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is how it humanizes Kahan. He openly discusses how his upbringing – growing up with three siblings and divorced parents – shaped both his music and identity. His connection to Vermont plays a major role, grounding his story in a strong sense of place and authenticity. The film not only highlights the landscapes and small-town atmosphere of Vermont, but also incorporates brief interviews with local residents, reinforcing how deeply his roots are tied to the community. Through songs like “Stick Season”, Kahan reveals personal experiences that carry deeper meaning for those familiar with his background.
For example, lyrics such as “And I saw your mom, she forgot that I existed/And it’s half my fault, but I just like to play the victim” reflect the reality of growing up in a small town where relationships and memories linger, even when people move on. These insights make the film especially engaging for viewers who appreciate emotionally honest storytelling.
However, one of the documentary’s more significant flaws is its limited perspective. While Kahan is open about his struggles, the film relies heavily on his own narration and point of view. There are few outside voices–family members, industry professionals, or critics to provide additional contests or challenge his perspective. Because of this approach, the documentary can feel somewhat one-sided, missing the opportunity to more fully explore how others have influenced his journey. Including more external insight could have added depth and made the storytelling feel more complete rather than centered almost entirely on Kahan’s personal reflections
Overall, “Noah Kahan: Out of Body” succeeds in its purpose: delivering a personal and emotionally honest portrayal of Kahan, showing both the rewards and challenges that come with his popularity. Although the documentary’s narrow, mostly self-told perspective limits how deeply the story is explored, it still succeeds in connecting with its audience through its vulnerability and realism. By the end, the film accomplishes its main goal: giving viewers a deeper understanding of the person behind the music, even if it leaves some perspectives unexplored.
