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Once

An Irish man plays a worn out guitar on the street and then gets his guitar case stolen by a street kid. This is not the opening you’d expect from a movie musical, but this film is musical without the frills of a staged show. The music here is comprised of mellow rock songs that come up naturally as the characters play for each other. These organic musical numbers are complemented by the documentary, cinema verite feel of the shooting and narrative. The film presents a comedic romance that takes its time, with slow paced scenes and dialog that gives a real life nuance to the plot. Quiet images contrast the poetic rock music of Glen Hansard, which sounds like a contemporary folk rock mix. This movie is heart breakingly genuine as it romances the audience like a great ballad should.

Musician Glen Hansard plays a character modeled after his own life. Following him from street performer to making his music in a recording studio, this film functions to promote the little known Irish singer. However, it is not one big promo video, as thrown into the mix is a Czech girl played by Marketa Irglova who befriends Hansard’s character and helps him create his music. They go down the road of a complicated attraction. Hansard isn’t exactly over his last girlfriend, and Irglova is still married to her estranged husband. Their music reflects their sad longing.

The simple story flows like a musical composition. It uses wit and honesty in a world very far from the glittery Hollywood tales of heart and music. This gritty musical is neither flashy nor shiny, but will have you humming its catchy tunes. The Irish bohemian tale is sweet but never sappy. This movie is a beautiful film with a feint sadness wrapped around the feeling of hope that music tends to give.

Written by: Marguerite Spellman

Reviewers Rating: 9.5
Reader's Rating: 9.00
Reader's Votes: 1

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