Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga

Feeling like one of those singing contest shows with considerably more talking than performing, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga contains enough quality material for a pop ditty rather than a feature film.

Despite some broad targets to lampoon — courtesy of some obscure true-life source material — this small-town underdog comedy about a cheesy Icelandic singing duo generates some scattered big laughs yet doesn’t carry a tune on a deeper emotional level.

Lars (Will Ferrell) has channeled a childhood affection for ABBA into an obsession for musical stardom. Although he incorporates outrageous costumes and sets into his act, he can’t overcome a simple lack of talent.

His best asset is his loyal partner Sigrit (Rachel McAdams), whose wonderful voice more than compensates for a timid stage presence. The duo, known as Fire Saga, is stuck playing a dorky tune called “Jaja Ding Dong” over and over to an audience of hirsute regulars at the local pub.

The parade of naysayers starts with Lars’ exasperated father (Pierce Brosnan), who’s long since ready for him to move on. “Stop making a fool of yourself. All of Iceland will laugh at you,” he warns.

He’s referring to the annual Eurovision contest, which Lars views as the chance for a big break. And thanks to a far-fetched set of circumstances, they get their shot against the best from other countries, including a Russian rocker (Dan Stevens) with ulterior motives.

Their complete oblivion to overwhelming criticism in pursuit of a dream is somewhat endearing. But as directed by David Dobkin (Wedding Crashers), the film would benefit from more disciplined editing and snappier pacing.

The screenplay by Ferrell and Andrew Steele (a “Saturday Night Live” veteran) gently pokes fun at Scandinavian culture, which is generally an excuse to speak in funny accents while saying unusual names and words like “fjord.”

While overdosing on such quirks, the film stumbles as a wish-fulfillment fantasy, bogging down in predicable plot mechanics leading up to the big competition finale.

At least Ferrell and McAdams bring the required energy to their portrayals, even if the eccentric periphery characters are generally more amusing, including Graham Norton as the competition’s sardonic commentator.

As with Fire Saga’s relentlessly upbeat songs, the film isn’t bad enough to be embarrassing, but it’s also rarely catchy or inspired — whether on stage or screen.

Rated PG-13, 123 minutes.