Movie Review: Once
Posted on January 10, 2008
Once has to be one of the most compelling films I have seen in a while. The story, while being so simple, was so intriguing and all consuming. The mood of the film was set (extremely well) with music so, in a sense, I suppose this film could be called a musical but it is truly unlike any other musical I have ever seen (i.e. it’s not cheesy).
The premise of the film is this: boy (singer/songwriter) meets girl (pianist/singer), girl opens boys eyes, girl helps boy find the strength to win back his ex while they also write and record a CD together (in one busy week), [SPOILER ALERT - Skip the next sentence if you don’t want to know what happens.] girl and boy have a strong connection but never consummate their relationship due to other life constraints.
I know what you’re thinking, it seems so simple and it can’t be that great, but I am telling you that you need to watch Once. I really believe you will fall in love with the film and, as I did, buy the soundtrack immediately after watching it. I think they should tour as a band. They really mesh well together.
I don’t really know what else to say other than this film was very well done and it sets a new standard for musicals. If you can, pick up Once for the weekend. You won’t regret it (but you may have a strong urge to grab a Guinness and then book a trip to Ireland - where the film takes place).
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I feel lucky to have seen Glen Hansard’s band, The Frames, a couple years ago when they opened for someone in Madison, WI (can’t remember who the headliner was). I’ve seen them a couple times since. Glen’s a great performer, and I’ve heard great things about this film!
Yea, Once is a great film. Lend your ear to The Frames if their ever in NY, they are fantastic. They played at the Hideout Block Party this summer. Erin and I saw Glen and Marketa Irglova (who actually date in real life) at the Vic a month ago - it was a great.
See all the cool stuff that happens in Chicago…don’t you miss it?
Eric,
I agree. I saw it awhile ago and really enjoyed it. The opening scene was awesome - it grabbed me right from the start. I also loved the dynamics between the two main characters. What did you think of the entire Soundtrack? Are there some bonus songs that are not in the film. I believe I saw the CD for sale at Starbucks when it was first released (could be wrong though).